Hersheypark Arena

HersheyPark Arena

Hersheypark arena outside1

Hersheypark Arena at ice level

Last Bears game at Hersheypark Arena May 4, 2002

Hershey Sports Arena 1937 Bears hockey

Hershey Park Arena

Hersheypark Arena is a historic indoor arena located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Opened in 1936, it has played a significant role in the sports and entertainment history of the region. Originally known as the Hershey Sports Arena, it was a pioneering structure in the American sports and entertainment landscape, notable for its size, design, and the variety of events it hosted.

History

The arena was commissioned by Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company, as part of his efforts to provide entertainment and recreational facilities for his workers and the residents of Hershey. Construction began in 1936 and was completed in the same year, a testament to the urgency and efficiency prioritized by Hershey and his architects. The Hersheypark Arena was groundbreaking at the time of its opening, being one of the largest arenas in the eastern United States.

Throughout its history, Hersheypark Arena has hosted a wide range of events, including professional ice hockey games, figure skating competitions, boxing matches, concerts, and political rallies. It is perhaps best known as the original home of the Hershey Bears hockey team, a relationship that lasted until 2002 when the team moved to the nearby Giant Center. The arena's ice surface has also been a significant venue for figure skating, hosting numerous competitions and shows.

Architecture

The Hersheypark Arena's architecture is notable for its Art Deco influences, with a distinctive rounded exterior and a large, domed roof. This design not only provided an aesthetically pleasing structure but also allowed for a large, unobstructed interior space ideal for sporting events and concerts. The arena originally had a seating capacity of approximately 8,000, which was significant for its time.

Significant Events

One of the most historic events to take place in the arena was the 1962 NHL exhibition game, in which the Philadelphia Flyers faced off against the New York Rangers. This game is particularly remembered for Wilt Chamberlain's legendary 100-point game, a record-setting performance in professional basketball that remains unsurpassed.

The arena has also been a key venue for the Ice Capades, a traveling entertainment show featuring figure skaters, which contributed to the popularization of figure skating in the United States.

Legacy and Current Use

While the Hersheypark Arena no longer serves as the primary venue for the Hershey Bears or large-scale concerts, it remains an active part of Hershey's recreational and cultural life. It is used for local sports events, including youth hockey leagues and figure skating clubs, and serves as a practice facility for the Hershey Bears. The arena is also available for public ice skating, maintaining its role as a community asset.

In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, efforts have been made to preserve and maintain the Hersheypark Arena. It stands as a monument to the vision of Milton S. Hershey and a reminder of the rich history of sports and entertainment in Hershey, Pennsylvania.