In 2023, Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction is celebrating its milestone 50^th anniversary with a full roster of experiences, events, and a brand-new attraction, plus an official 50th birthday celebration on June 30. Over 117 million visitors have passed through Hershey's Chocolate World's doors since its official opening in 1973. For 50 years, families have participated in the destination's educational and entertaining attractions such as The Hershey's Chocolate Tour, Create Your Own Candy Bar, Hershey Trolley Works, and Hershey's Unwrapped. 

"Reaching a milestone such as a 50^th anniversary is a testament to the visitors who have passed through Hershey's Chocolate World, and the employees who make every experience so delightful," said Suzanne Jones, vice president of The Hershey Experience. "Each guest who visits Hershey's Chocolate World this year can expect lots of excitement as we lead up to the unveiling of our newest attraction and welcome guests to take part in our most treasured traditions and new events to celebrate."

The full slate of 50^th Anniversary events include:

Happy 50^th Birthday to Us, and You! January–December

Fans who were born in the year 1973 and visit Hershey's Chocolate World at any time throughout the year can celebrate their birthday, too. Consumers can stop by the Ticketing desk at Hershey's Chocolate World in Hershey, PA, to receive a sweet treat – a classic Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar.

50^th Anniversary Kick Off and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication - February 4

During the 50^th anniversary kick-off event and Chocolate Sculpture Dedication, guests will help to ring in the milestone year with activities including:

• Characters Hersh, Kiss, Reese, and friends will show off their new celebratory outfits in honor of the anniversary year.
• Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, PA-based food artists, will unveil 2023's anniversary-themed Chocolate Sculpture, which is slated to be on display through summer.
• The Bean to Bar parade, educating guests on the chocolate creation process along the way, will begin its weekly cadence taking place every Saturday and Sunday throughout February at 1:30pm.

Grand Opening of Hershey's Chocolate World's New Attraction – summer 2023 

The highly anticipated announcement of the new attraction to replace its 4D Chocolate Movie opens with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and special access to the experience.

Hershey's Chocolate World Birthday Party – June 30

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. ET with a rededication ceremony of Hershey's Chocolate World, guest speakers, the Bean to Bar Band, everyone's favorite Candy Ambassadors, Hersh, Kiss, and Reese, and more will help to kick off the special day. Special activities include:

• Exclusive treats and experiences on property.
• A character meet and greet to receive collectible signatures from each beloved character.

Milton Hershey Birthday Celebration – September 11

Pay tribute to the man who started it all, Milton Hershey, for his birthday. Fans will enjoy an exclusive celebration and be able to collect their own Milton Hershey inspired mustache during this event.

2023 Hershey's Chocolate House Unveiling – November 10

The holiday tradition returns—with a twist! Visit this year's 50^th anniversary-themed Hershey's Chocolate House during the 2023 holiday season and find it on display through January 2024. In celebration of the Hershey's Chocolate House, each year, The Hershey Company makes a volunteer support donation to benefit the Children's Miracle Network.

Fans can also collect exclusive, limited-time-only 50^th anniversary merchandise such as bags, mugs, shirts, and ornaments available only at the flagship location throughout 2023.

Check out Hershey's Chocolate World's website and social channels for teasers of the new attraction, a special birthday celebration countdown, and additional information on Hershey's Chocolate World offerings.