Dollywood celebrates 40th anniversary season in 2025
Published 11:34 am Monday, December 9, 2024
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Live music is a constant feature for Dollywood visitors.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/The Dolly Parton Experience, a walk-through museum showcasing the story of Dolly Parton's life, has become a favorite attraction for park visitors.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Rides for younger children can be found in Dollywood's Country Fair and Wildwood Grove areas.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/No visit to Dollywood is complete without stopping at the Grist Mill to pick up some of the park's famous cinnamon bread.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/For those seeking a hearty meal, the fried chicken served at Aunt Granny's is highly recommended.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/For a quick snack, a visit to the 1950s-themed Red's Diner is an experience all its own.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Thrill-seekers at Dollywood can choose from 10 different roller coasters.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Dolly Parton's iconic "Coat of Many Colors" is on display as you enter The Dolly Parton Experience.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Hands-on crafts such as metalsmithing, leatherworking, candle-making, glass blowing, and wood carving are available for Dollywood visitors to enjoy.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood immerses visitors in a winter wonderland with over six million twinkling lights.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/Glacier Ridge transforms Dollywood into a winter wonderland during Smoky Mountain Christmas in Pigeon Forge.
Ron Marvel/Star Correspondent/The Wildwood Tree comes to life nightly during the holidays with a kaleidoscope of lights, colors, music, and even snow!
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By Ron Marvel
Star Correspondent
Dollywood Parks & Resorts, one of the world’s premier family destinations, is set to celebrate its milestone 40th anniversary season in 2025. Opened on May 3, 1986, the park has grown from Dolly Parton’s dream into a cherished theme park renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and top-tier entertainment.
“I can’t believe that we’ve been making memories for folks here at my Dollywood for 40 years,” Parton said. “That’s a lot of laughter, hugs, and smiles, and I’m proud of all the people who have made Dollywood what it is today. I want to thank all the guests who’ve supported us and trusted us to help them create days they’ll never forget.”
The 40th anniversary season will include a mix of new attractions and returning favorites:
- 40th Anniversary Show: Debuting Memorial Day weekend, this summer-long show highlights memorable performances from Dollywood’s entertainment history.
- Drone and Fireworks Show: A new nighttime spectacle honors the milestone as part of Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, presented by Food City.
- Imagination Playhouse: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library-inspired playhouse becomes a permanent fixture, offering shows for younger guests from March through September.
- Country Fair Refresh: The park’s Country Fair area receives updates for 2025, transforming into Candy Corn Country during the Harvest Festival and Peppermint Valley during Smoky Mountain Christmas.
The 2025 season opens with the I Will Always Love You Music Festival (March 15–April 13), featuring the award-winning show From the Heart–The Life & Music of Dolly Parton. The season continues with popular events such as:
- Flower & Food Festival (April 18-June 8), with stunning floral displays and spring-themed culinary delights.
- Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 14-August 3), showcasing the Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show, along with family-friendly performances like Bubble Evolution and Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience.
- Harvest Festival (Sept. 12-Oct. 27), featuring the award-winning Great Pumpkin LumiNights, talented artisans, and seasonal foods.
- Smoky Mountain Christmas (Nov. 1-Jan. 4), offering six million lights, festive shows, and Dollywood’s signature holiday atmosphere.
With something for every season, Dollywood’s 40th year promises to be a celebration of joy, memories, and the family traditions that have made the park a beloved destination.
