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Hershey Bears

The Hershey Bears are a professional ice hockey team based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, that play in the American Hockey League (AHL).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Hershey Bears are a professional ice hockey team based in Hershey, Pennsylvania, that play in the American Hockey League (AHL). They are the AHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals and are the league’s most successful franchise by Calder Cup titles.

History

The franchise began in 1932 and became the Hershey Bears in 1938 when it entered the AHL. It has remained in Hershey, Pennsylvania, since its founding and is widely described as the AHL’s longest continuously operating club in its original city.

Home arena

The Bears have played at GIANT Center since 2002. Before that, they played at Hersheypark Arena, which was their home from 1938 to 2002.

Achievements

The Bears are the most successful team in AHL history by championships, with 13 Calder Cups. Their most recent title was won in 2024.

NHL affiliation

Since the 2005–06 season, the Hershey Bears have served as the primary development club for the NHL’s Washington Capitals.

Key facts

  • The club originated in 1932 as the Hershey B’ars before joining the AHL in 1938.
  • The Bears have played home games at GIANT Center since 2002.
  • They are the AHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals.
  • The Bears have won a league-record 13 Calder Cups.
  • Their most recent Calder Cup title came in 2024.
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Canadian context

The Hershey Bears are part of the AHL, a major North American developmental league that includes many Canadian-based or Canadian-connected players, coaches, and fan interest.

Frequently asked questions

What league do the Hershey Bears play in?
They play in the American Hockey League (AHL), the top minor professional league in North America.
Where do the Hershey Bears play home games?
They play at GIANT Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Who are the Hershey Bears affiliated with?
They are affiliated with the Washington Capitals of the NHL.
How many Calder Cups have the Hershey Bears won?
They have won 13 Calder Cups, more than any other AHL team.
When were the Hershey Bears founded?
The franchise was founded in 1932, originally as the Hershey B’ars.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hershey_Bears
    Supports: Founding year, AHL participation, home arena, Washington Capitals affiliation, Calder Cup count, recent championship.
  2. Hershey Bears — https://www.hersheybears.com/
    Supports: Official team identification, Washington Capitals affiliation, professional hockey team in Central Pennsylvania.
  3. Hershey Entertainment & Resorts — https://www.hersheyentertainmentandresorts.com/properties/hershey-bears/
    Supports: Origin in 1932, AHL history, GIANT Center home, record Calder Cup total.
  4. GIANT Center — https://www.hersheyentertainment.com/giant-center/hershey-bears.php
    Supports: Home arena since 2002 and team description.
  5. Hershey, PA tourism — https://www.hersheypa.com/things-to-do/attractions/hershey-bears.php
    Supports: Local team status, Washington Capitals affiliation, home venue.