Ligonier Transforms into Early 1900s Hershey for Film Production

The quaint borough of Ligonier has recently become a vibrant set for the "Hershey" movie, which has been capturing the essence of the Pittsburgh area for weeks. This picturesque town is now a stand-in for late 19th and early 20th century Hershey, Pennsylvania, as filmmakers work to depict the life of chocolate mogul Milton Hershey.

"It's fascinating," remarked Ligonier police chief Mike Matrunics, reflecting on the extensive preparations for the film. "Seeing all the costumes and the effort they put into recreating the era is truly impressive. The town has really embraced this project."

Incentives like Pennsylvania's $100 million film tax credit have attracted numerous productions to the region, according to the Pittsburgh Film Office. This financial support not only encourages filmmakers to choose Pennsylvania but also stimulates local economies, generating an additional $0.80 for every dollar spent in the film industry.

Without this tax credit, productions like "Hershey" might not find their way to locations such as Ligonier. The bustling streets have been filled with local crew members and extras dressed in period attire, creating a lively atmosphere that has drawn the attention of residents and visitors alike. Among them was Finn Wittrock, who stars as Milton Hershey, spotted casually walking through town.

Marty Stewart, a background actor from Plum, shared his experience on set during the first day of filming. "It was a long and hot day," he said, referring to his wool suit that was fitting for the time period. "I hoped we wouldn't be outside too long, but we all made it through together. The crew ensured we had a good time despite the heat!"

Adding a touch of charm to the set was Waffles, a one-and-a-half-year-old French Bulldog who has become an unofficial mascot for both the film and the town. Waffles, along with his owner April Kinzler, who works at Ligonier Paws on Main, has been a delightful presence during filming. Despite some disruptions to their business, Kinzler expressed gratitude for the opportunity: "This has been a fantastic experience for us and the community."

Angle Tunstall, who runs Ligonier Paws on Main, echoed Kinzler's sentiments. "There are so many positive opportunities that come with this," she stated. "The film crew and everyone involved have been wonderful. We appreciate their contribution to our town."

While "Hershey" marks another addition to Ligonier's cinematic history—following films like Foxcatcher (2014) and The Pale Blue Eye (2022)—it stands out for its immersive transformation of the town's Dimond area into a historical setting. Regardless of how audiences receive the film upon its release, locals will fondly remember the warm days of late spring 2025 when Ligonier embraced its role as a nostalgic backdrop.

Filming for "Hershey" is set to conclude in late June, with hopes for a release in 2026.