In 1893, the World’s Fair in Chicago introduced Americans to innovations that would shape the modern world—among them, chocolate-making technology that would forever change Milton S. Hershey’s future. While attending the fair, Hershey encountered European chocolate machinery that inspired him to shift his focus from caramel to chocolate, setting the foundation for what would become one of America’s most iconic brands.

Join us for a special weekend as we celebrate that pivotal moment in both Hershey and American history.

At “The Midway,” outside enjoy the stilt performers, period music, and ice cream for purchase from Sarah’s Creamery. Afterwards, enter the lobby to see models of early chocolate making machinery and witness period actors walking throughout. Explore the Museum Experience to see Milton’s connections to the fair, write to a friend using replica bar cards, and learn how to wrap a Hershey Kiss by hand.

Stop by “The Hall of Arts and Sciences” to learn more about electricity, inventions, and architecture at the fair through hands-on activities. Listen to a phonograph, assemble your own Ferris wheel, and explore architectural styles and material textures in this area. Be sure to visit the Chocolate Lab to enjoy classic treats both exhibited at the fair and inspired by it such as Palmer House Hotel brownies, caramel popcorn balls dipped in chocolate, and an orange cider drink.

Free with Museum Experience admission; free for members. Includes special walk-up experiences in the Chocolate Lab.