First Derry Presbyterian Church
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Derry Presbyterian Church

4.6
·41 reviews·Hershey, United States

A historic 1724 stone church in Hershey, PA, known for its architecture, concerts, and welcoming community spirit.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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First Derry Presbyterian Church

Derry Presbyterian Church

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic 1724 stone church in Hershey, PA, known for its architecture, concerts, and welcoming community spirit.

4.6
(41 reviews)

"Beautiful old stone church built in 1724, a testament to colonial craftsmanship and community."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedule

See upcoming concerts & events for a lively visit!

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Stone Architecture

Historic Stone Architecture

Main Sanctuary

Admire the enduring beauty of this 1724 stone structure, a testament to colonial craftsmanship.

Community Event Hub

Community Event Hub

Various locations within the church

Experience the church's lively spirit through annual picnics, concerts, and worship nights.

Impressive Organ Performances

Impressive Organ Performances

Sanctuary

Listen to the magnificent sounds of the Aeolian-Skinner organ during concerts and recitals.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

While Derry Presbyterian Church is a place of worship, it also hosts events. Check their calendar for concerts or community gatherings to experience its vibrant side. For a quieter visit, aim for weekday mornings to soak in the historical ambiance without crowds.

Understanding the Church's Role

Derry Presbyterian Church is an active place of worship with a rich history. Visitors often attend for concerts, community events, or to appreciate its architecture. Be mindful of services and respect the sacred nature of the space.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During scheduled concerts
Why
Experience musical talent
Crowd
Medium
When
Annual Church Picnic (June)
Why
Family fun and fellowship
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

KEBANGUNAN ROHANI🇺🇲🇬🇧🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🇩🇪🇪🇸🇰🇾🇭🇲🇰🇷🇲🇨 Ini adalah pertunjukan Summers Worship Night terbesar yang pernah ada di Hershey Park, Pennsylvania, Amerika Serikat. Dengan lebih dari 30.000 orang yang hadir, sungguh luar biasa membayangkan setiap orang datang dengan kisah dan kehidupan unik mereka masing-masing, semuanya untuk memuliakan nama Yesus Kristus. Segala kemuliaan bagi Tuhan, selamanya. Amen #...
@bluelabel869
9.4K likes • 66.4K views

Check Event Schedule

See upcoming concerts & events for a lively visit! InstagramReddit

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship. Reddit

@Brandon Lake @Phil Wickham #summerworshipnights #summerworshipnightstour #sweetestplaceonearth #hersheypa #brandonlake
@jreber23
4.3K likes • 30.3K views
You’re invited for a day of food, fellowship, and fun! 📍Where: Derry Presbyterian Church ⏰ When: Sunday, June 1 from 11:30 am to 1 pm ⛪️ What: Annual Church Picnic This picnic is free for everyone, so bring your friends, neighbors, and family! We can’t wait to see you there, #derrypres #churchpicnic #community #welcome
derrypres
14 likes • 437 views

Parking Considerations

Handicap parking is available, but consider accessibility needs. Reddit

Embrace the History

Appreciate the 1724 architecture and its historical significance. Reddit

And here is Melody by Myroslaw Skoryk, from my concert in Derry Presbyterian Church in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This piece has become iconic over the last 3,5 years - a hymn of freedom and hope 💙💛Listen to the warm, beautiful sound of this Aeolian-Skinner organ - it’s amazing! A heartfelt thank you to Daniel Dorty @danieldorty for this beautiful invitation - the very first one here! P.S. Nope, I h...
dariialytvishko
184 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedule

See upcoming concerts & events for a lively visit! InstagramReddit

Respectful Attire

Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship. Reddit

Parking Considerations

Handicap parking is available, but consider accessibility needs. Reddit

Embrace the History

Appreciate the 1724 architecture and its historical significance. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(41 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Derry Presbyterian Church for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and welcoming community atmosphere. Many enjoy attending the various concerts and events held there, particularly highlighting the impressive organ performances. While generally positive, some minor points of improvement regarding accessibility have been noted.

"Went to a baby shower. Was very nice. Kitchen was well equipped. Rest rooms were clean. Parking areas were plowed."

Vicki Linsey

"Went to the concert, first of 5 this season. Beautiful old stone church built in 1724."

Jim Finan

"It's a church how can a person say anything bad. I went for a great friends passing celebration. People there are very welcoming. It's a very large church."

Anita Payne

What People Like

Historic stone architecture
Welcoming community
Organ concerts

What People Dislike

Parking accessibility suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Derry Presbyterian Church is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. While specific public transport details are scarce, driving is the most common method. Ample parking is available on-site, though some visitors have noted that handicap parking could be more accessible on both sides of the building. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Derry Presbyterian Church. Visitors have mentioned that parking areas are generally well-maintained, with plowing done in winter. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Derry Presbyterian Church is primarily a place of worship, so general visits for historical appreciation do not require tickets. However, for specific events like concerts or the annual picnic, there might be associated costs or registration requirements. Admission for some concerts, like the Every Voice Festival, has been noted as free. Instagram

As an active church, specific public visiting hours outside of services and events are not always clearly defined. It's best to check their official calendar for any scheduled events or contact the church directly if you have a specific time in mind for a visit. Instagram

Admission fees vary depending on the event. While some community events like the annual picnic are free,Instagram concerts may have ticket prices or suggest donations. The Every Voice Festival, for instance, offered free admission. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Derry Presbyterian Church is a historically significant site, with its main stone structure dating back to 1724. It represents a piece of colonial American history and has been a spiritual center for the community for centuries. Reddit

Yes, as an active church, Derry Presbyterian Church holds regular services. Visitors are welcome to attend services to experience the spiritual atmosphere and community. Reddit

The church has handicap parking, but some visitors have suggested improving accessibility by having it on both sides of the building. Reddit It's advisable to contact the church directly to inquire about specific accessibility features within the building itself.

Derry Presbyterian Church hosts a variety of events, including concerts featuring local and visiting musicians,Instagram+1 community gatherings like annual picnics,Instagram and large-scale worship nights that can draw thousands. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Derry Presbyterian Church itself is not a restaurant, it does have a well-equipped kitchen that is utilized for events like baby showers and community picnics. Reddit For regular dining, you'll find numerous options in the surrounding Hershey, PA area.

For events like the annual church picnic, bringing food is part of the communal experience. Instagram For other events, it's best to check specific guidelines, but generally, outside food might be restricted unless specified.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal memories, especially during events like concerts. Instagram However, always be respectful of ongoing services or performances. For professional or commercial photography, it's advisable to seek permission from the church administration.

The historic stone exterior offers a classic backdrop. Inside, the sanctuary, especially with the organ, provides a grand setting for photos during concerts or events. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Derry Presbyterian Church offers a welcoming environment for families. The annual Church Picnic is a highlight, providing a day of food, fellowship, and fun for all ages. Instagram While the church itself is a historical site, its community events are designed to be inclusive and enjoyable for children.

For those attending events, the church has a well-equipped kitchen that can be useful for family gatherings. Reddit However, when planning a visit, consider the historical nature of the building and ensure any activities are suitable for young children. The accessibility of parking for families with strollers or young children might be a consideration, as noted by some visitors regarding handicap parking. Reddit

🎶 Music Enthusiasts

For music lovers, Derry Presbyterian Church is a must-visit destination. The church is renowned for its magnificent Aeolian-Skinner organ, which provides a stunning backdrop for a variety of concerts. Instagram You can catch performances by college choirs,Instagram sacred music ensembles,Instagram and even large-scale worship nights that attract thousands. TikTok+1

Attending a concert here offers a unique experience, blending the beauty of the historic architecture with the power of live music. Keep an eye on their event schedule to catch these incredible performances and experience the church's vibrant musical life.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find Derry Presbyterian Church a fascinating site. As a beautiful old stone church built in 1724, it offers a tangible connection to colonial America. Reddit The architecture itself is a significant draw, showcasing the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

Exploring the church allows you to step back in time and appreciate its enduring presence in the community. It's a place where you can learn about the historical context of the region and its early settlers. Consider visiting during a quieter time to fully absorb the historical atmosphere.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Derry Presbyterian Church stands as a significant historical landmark in Hershey, Pennsylvania, with its origins tracing back to 1724. The beautiful old stone church is a testament to the enduring faith and architectural styles of its era. Visitors often remark on its impressive, historic ambiance, making it more than just a place of worship but a destination for those interested in colonial history. Reddit

Its historical significance is amplified by its role in the community, hosting events that range from intimate gatherings to large-scale worship nights that have drawn tens of thousands. TikTok The church's enduring presence offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the foundations upon which the community was built.

The church's architecture itself is a draw, with its sturdy stone construction symbolizing resilience and longevity. This historical depth makes Derry Presbyterian Church a unique spot for both spiritual reflection and historical exploration.

Musical Vibrancy and Performances

Derry Presbyterian Church is not only a historical site but also a vibrant venue for musical performances. The church boasts a magnificent Aeolian-Skinner organ, renowned for its warm and beautiful sound, which serves as a centerpiece for many concerts. Instagram Musicians have expressed their delight in performing on this instrument, highlighting its exceptional acoustics.

The church frequently hosts a variety of musical events, from spring concerts by college choirs Instagram to sacred music festivals like the Every Voice Festival, featuring interdenominational choirs and ensembles. Instagram These events showcase local and visiting talent, offering attendees a rich cultural experience. Large-scale worship nights, such as the Summer Worship Night Tour, have also drawn massive crowds, demonstrating the church's capacity to host significant spiritual and musical gatherings. TikTok+1

Attending a concert at Derry Presbyterian Church offers a unique blend of historical ambiance and exceptional musical artistry. The combination of the stunning architecture and the powerful organ creates an unforgettable auditory and visual experience for all who attend.

Community and Fellowship

Beyond its historical and musical offerings, Derry Presbyterian Church is a hub for community and fellowship. The church actively fosters a welcoming environment, evident in events like its annual Church Picnic. This gathering is described as a day of food, fellowship, and fun, encouraging attendees to bring friends, neighbors, and family to share in the experience. Instagram

Visitors often comment on the welcoming nature of the people at the church, noting that it's a place where individuals feel accepted and part of something larger. Reddit This sense of community extends to various events, from baby showers held in their well-equipped kitchen to celebrations for pre-K classes, showcasing the church's role in supporting different life stages and community needs. Reddit

The emphasis on community makes Derry Presbyterian Church a place where people connect, share experiences, and build relationships, reinforcing its role as a central gathering point for the Hershey area.

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