How long are ceremonies?
Ceremony only events are available for two hours between 11:00 and 2:00 p.m on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Your ceremony (up to 200 guests) may start anytime during this time frame, but must conclude by 2:00 p.m. A ceremony with reception (up to 120 guests) may begin at 4:00 p.m. or later. Wedding guests are free to enjoy the beauty of the Gardens one hour prior to the wedding and after the wedding until the Gardens close to the public. Please see operating hours here.
How long are receptions?
Receptions begin at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All receptions must end at 10:00 p.m. Wedding guests are free to enjoy the beauty of the Gardens one hour prior to the wedding and after the wedding until the Gardens close to the public. Please see operating hours here.
What is the maximum number of guests for a sit-down reception?
The maximum number of guests for a sit-down reception in the tent and the Educational & Horticultural Wing is 120. The maximum number of guests for a standing reception is 200+.
Can I select my own catering vendor?
Hershey Lodge must provide all food items, excluding the wedding cake and any favors. All outside items and vendors must be approved by your caterer/coordinator. The Hershey Lodge is familiar with the Gardens and offer the highest quality of catering and support. The preferred caterer can be contacted with the information below:
Hershey Lodge
Catering Events Coordinator
Caroline Morris
[email protected]
717-534-8645
Can we provide our own alcohol?
All alcohol must be purchased and served through the Hershey Lodge.
Can I get married November or December?
Yes, however, due to flower shows and educational exhibits, ceremonies are limited to a maximum attendance of 75.
May I take pictures in the Gardens with my wedding party?
If you are having your wedding ceremony or reception at the Gardens, you are free to take pictures in the Gardens before or after your wedding, during your reserved time. Wedding parties that are not having their wedding at the Gardens may take pictures with the requirement that all guests in the wedding party and the photographer pay general admission. The photographer should complete and sign a photography release form, which will be given to admissions staff upon arrival. Photographers and wedding parties should be mindful of other guests and keep walkways clear. Wedding parties are not permitted to take photos in the Butterfly Atrium. Please see photography policies here.
Please note: Hershey Gardens strictly prohibits the operation of or use of any unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as “Drones,” on, from, or above the HE&R properties without specific written permission. This includes all UAVs regardless of size, weight, or purpose.
How do I reserve a date?
You may reserve your event spaces as early as 12 months in advance. Your catering events manager will provide you with the agreements. Once all agreements are signed and the deposit received, your date will be confirmed.
What is the payment schedule?
A deposit of 50% is due upon signed contract. The final payment is due three business days prior to event date.
What happens when there is inclement weather?
As a back-up, outdoor ceremonies will be moved to the tent. A rain plan will be made with your catering events manager at least 72 hours prior to the event, should rain or severe weather be forecasted for your wedding day.
Is there a dressing room available for the bride and attendants to get ready in?
No. Although there is a small storage space for personal items. There is also a room for a quick “refresh.”
Are the Gardens wheelchair accessible?
Hershey Gardens is wheelchair accessible. To avoid steep terrain, please follow the suggested route on the map guide. Hershey Gardens has a limited number of manual wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis. Wheelchairs may not be reserved in advance.
Is there parking?
Hershey Gardens has sufficient free parking for your event.
