Hershey Entertainment Complex facts for kids

The Hershey Entertainment Complex is a huge area in Derry Township, Pennsylvania. It's home to many fun places like Hersheypark, Hersheypark Stadium, Star Pavilion, Hersheypark Arena, and the Giant Center.

This whole complex is owned by the Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company (HE&R). They are based right in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Discover Hersheypark: Rides and Fun

Hersheypark is the most popular spot at the complex. It's a big amusement park with lots to do. You can find over eleven exciting roller coasters here. There are also many fun water rides in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark section.

Hersheypark has rides for everyone, including younger kids and families. All these rides are part of your admission ticket. People often call Hersheypark the country's Cleanest and Greenest Park.

Hersheypark Stadium: Sports and Concerts

The Hersheypark Stadium is a large outdoor area. It has concrete seats on two sides. This stadium can hold 15,000 people for sports like football and soccer. For concerts, it can fit over 30,000 fans.

The stadium hosts the Summer Concert Series. It's also where the Big 33 Football Classic takes place. You can also watch the PIAA Football and Soccer Championships here. Many local events happen at the stadium too.

Star Pavilion: Smaller Concerts

The Star Pavilion is located at the north end of Hersheypark Stadium. It's a place for smaller concerts. Up to 7,500 people can enjoy shows here. Some seats are reserved, and some are general admission on the grass.

Hersheypark Arena: A Historic Ice Rink

Hersheypark Arena is one of the oldest ice rinks still standing in the United States. It was built in 1939 for the Hershey Bears hockey team. Over the years, it got older, which led to building the Giant Center.

The arena used to host ice hockey games and big shows. These included the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus and WWE Wrestling. It also held small concerts for about 7,000 people. Today, it's used for local hockey practice and youth games. You can also go public skating or attend meetings here. This is also where Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in one NBA game.

Giant Center: Central Pennsylvania's Main Arena

The Giant Center is a top indoor arena in central Pennsylvania. It is located at 950 W. Hersheypark Drive. This arena was built in 2002. It replaced the older Hersheypark Arena, which was getting old and too small.

The GIANT Center is the biggest arena in South Central Pennsylvania. The Township of Derry owns this large and modern facility.

Emergency Preparedness: Staying Safe

The Hershey Entertainment Complex is ready for severe weather. In March 2008, it earned the StormReady certification. The National Weather Service gives this award to places prepared for bad weather.

The complex has special emergency plans. These include ways to act during emergencies and evacuation plans. They also have places for people to go for shelter. The complex uses many security cameras. There are also trained security staff. They have systems to spot and detect weather changes. All these efforts help keep everyone safe.