Warning: With Strike Looming Hersheypark May Not Open For the Summer Season

Oh, this wouldn't be good with a holiday weekend approaching.

Inside the Magic is reporting that a possible strike is looming at one of the most popular theme parks in America. If it happens, the park may not open up for the 2026 summer season on time, if at all.

Union Hersheypark workers rejected the final contract offer from park officials

It's Hersheypark, the largest theme park in Pennsylvania. It's scheduled to open on Thursday, May 21, for its summer season (open 7 days a week). Right now, it's open on the weekends only. Here's the problem. Over 200 Hersheypark union maintenance workers have rejected the "last, best, and final" contract offer from Hershey Entertainment & Resorts on May 7.

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This was the third offer from Hershey officials. Talks have been going on for months between the union and Hersheypark. Back in March, both sides agreed to extend the current contract for 60 days, so talks could continue.

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A union vote this week will determine if workers will strike

There will be a union vote this week determining if the workers will go out on strike. If they do, that could mean the delayed opening of the theme park because the striking union workers handle a variety of duties throughout Hersheypark, The Hershey Hotel, and the Giant Center concert venue.

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These essential workers include carpenters, HVAC techs, mechanics for the rides, electricians, plumbers, welders, painters, machinists, sign artists, laborers, central plant operators, auto mechanics, and utilities technicians. All of these positions are vital to the park's operation.

Union workers say working conditions have deteriorated

Union workers have said it used to be a great place to work, but conditions and benefits have worsened over the past few years. They want raises, more pay for "less-desirable" shifts, and more affordable health benefits.

A decision on whether or not to strike will be announced later this week by the union. To read more about the situation, click here.

A Hershey Entertainment & Resorts spokesperson released this statement:

"Hersheypark is preparing to open for the 2026 summer season as scheduled on May 21. We are focused on delivering the experience our guests expect, and we look forward to welcoming them.

We continue to engage in contract negotiations with Local 464, and we have been in discussions with union leadership about a time to reconvene for further discussion. We value our long-standing relationship with our union-represented team members and remain committed to the bargaining process. We are not going to speculate on outcomes, but we can confirm that our opening plans are proceeding on schedule.

We will communicate directly with our guests if anything changes."