The region’s strength as a premier ice sports destination is on display this President’s Day Weekend as three competitions fill all four of its ice venues, including GIANT Center, Hersheypark Arena, Twin Ponds, and Klick Lewis Arena. The events are estimated to bring in more than 10,000 attendees and generate $4.2 million in economic impact.

“Multi-day sports events provide a significant positive impact on local businesses, which is especially beneficial during the winter months when visitation is slower” said Gregg Cook, Executive Director of the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority. “With seven NHL-sized ice rinks located within 20 minutes of the iconic Hersheypark, the region offers an impressive concentration of venues capable of supporting large-scale events. When the final buzzer sounds, athletes, families, and fans are treated to an unforgettable off-ice experience in The Sweetest Place on Earth®.”

GIANT Center will host the 18th Annual Reflections Synchro Invitational, organized by the Central Pennsylvania Figure Skating Club, on February 15-16. Over 100 teams of youth, collegiate, and adult skaters are expected to travel from across the country to attend the event. Admission is $20 per day or $35 for both days. Military members and children 8 years of age and under are free. Discounts are available for senior citizens.

The annual Hershey President’s Day Hockey Tournament organized by Travel Champs and Hershey Jr. Bears will be held at Hersheypark Arena on February 14-16. The event draws over 40 teams from the mid-Atlantic region. These organizations routinely host tournaments throughout the year at all of the region’s venues.

Twin Ponds and Klick Lewis Arena will host the SuperSeries Hockey President’s Day Showcase on February 14-16. Twin Ponds offers two NHL sized rinks and one 45’x85’ rink, while Klick Lewis Arena offers three NHL sized rinks making them excellent for tournament play to host multiple games simultaneously under one roof. Many organizations take advantage of the close proximity of these venues to host large tournaments with games at both arenas. The venues are also less than 20 minutes from iconic attractions in Hershey to offer plenty of fun off the ice as well. SuperSeries Hockey hosts tournaments in cities throughout the country and has found continued success working with these venues for multiple events. This weekend’s tournament will draw more than 20 teams from 7 states.

In addition to these events, the Great American Outdoor Show will continue through February 15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg. This longstanding event is the world’s largest outdoor show drawing over 200,000 visitors to experience two concerts, competitions, educational seminars, and over 1,000 exhibitors with the latest gear and trends in hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and outdoor recreation. The estimated economic impact from the nine-day event is $70 million.

For more information on the Hershey Harrisburg Sports & Events Authority and upcoming sports and entertainment events, visit www.hhsportsandevents.com.