If you’re planning a Smoky Mountains getaway (or just looking for a “dinner plan” that turns into a full-on event), Dolly Parton’s Stampede is gearing up for another big year. The longtime Pigeon Forge favorite returns for its 39th season on Feb. 6, returning with its signature blend of thundering hooves, music, comedy, and a four-course meal served while the action unfolds.  

The concept is simple in the best way: you don’t pick between dinner or a show—you get both, at arena scale. Guests step into a 35,000-square-foot venue where a cast of performers and 32 horses power through stunts, tricks, and crowd-pleasing competition that’s built for families, birthdays, group trips, and “we need to do something memorable tonight” energy.  

What’s new this season: meet Buttercup

A new four-legged scene-stealer is joining the fun: Buttercup, a Highland cow making her Stampede debut. This season’s storyline brings her into the comedic orbit of Skeeter, setting up a “magic act” that—predictably—goes hilariously off the rails, with Buttercup at the center of the chaos.  

The before-the-show perks fans swear by

• Stampede isn’t the kind of place you want to rush. Part of the appeal is that the night starts before you ever sit down for dinner:
• Horse Walk: Arrive early and you can meet some of the show’s equine stars up close.  
• Live pre-show music: The Saloon pre-show adds extra “Smokies night out” atmosphere with live bluegrass and country.  

Then it’s into the arena, where the production leans into Americana storytelling, friendly competition, and big visual moments supported by modern staging and effects.  

The segment people keep talking about: “Butterfly Dreams”

One of the most crowd-favorite moments is “Butterfly Dreams,” a vivid, effects-driven sequence that brings Dolly’s longtime love of butterflies into the arena with immersive lighting, costuming, and horses decked out in whimsical butterfly wings.  

As Dolly has said, seeing that transformation is one of those “dreams come to life” moments—designed to land with kids, lifelong fans, and anyone who’s a sucker for a show-stopping visual.  

What’s on the menu: the four-course feast

The other “star” of the night is what’s served at your seat: a hearty, family-style four-course meal built around comfort-food classics. Expect the show’s original creamy vegetable soup, a hot homemade biscuit, whole rotisserie chicken, pulled pork, corn on the cob, and mashed potatoes—plus dessert and unlimited soft drinks, tea, or coffee.  

(And yes: vegetarian options are available on request, depending on your party’s needs.)  

How to plan it

Showtimes for Dollywood’s Stampede’s 39th season vary by date, and reservations are strongly recommended—especially around weekends and school breaks. You can check the official schedule online or call the box office at 865-453-4400.  

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(Photo courtesy Dollywood Parks & Resorts)