Dollywood’s 2026 season will be unlike any year before in its history. The Pigeon Forge favorite—named Tripadvisor’s #1 U.S. theme park—will open for its 41st season on March 13, 2026, with a year packed full of firsts, from a massive new attraction to special events that stretch from spring through the holidays.
At the heart of it all is NightFlight Expedition, a $50 million attraction that represents the single largest investment in Dollywood’s history. Described as the world’s first indoor family hybrid coaster and whitewater raft ride, NightFlight Expedition will take guests on an immersive, 5½-minute journey through the Great Smoky Mountains.
Riders will glide through scenes inspired by the park’s natural surroundings—soaring above a glowing forest canopy, plunging through whitewater rapids fed by over half a million gallons of rushing water, then crossing a mysterious bioluminescent lake beneath the stars. It’s the kind of experience that blends Dollywood’s family-friendly charm with world-class ride innovation.
“I’m so proud of what the park has become in its first 40 years,” Dolly Parton said in a statement. “When we opened in 1986, I couldn’t have dreamed of something like this. It’s because of our guests and their support that we’re able to create attractions like NightFlight Expedition today. And trust me, we’re just getting started!”
New ways to play — and run — in the Smokies
For visitors who prefer sneakers over roller coasters, Dollywood will debut its first-ever Run Dollywood race weekend, scheduled for April 25–26, 2026. The event will offer a half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and a kids fun run for ages 4–12. Runners will race through Dollywood’s scenic park paths and the surrounding Smoky Mountains during one of the most beautiful times of year — when the park’s Flower & Food Festival is in full bloom.
Participants can expect plenty of mountain views, themed entertainment, and even some culinary surprises inspired by Dollywood’s famous festival flavors. Registration is open on the park’s website at Dollywood.com/RunDollywood.
A brand-new kind of Halloween magic
When fall arrives, Dollywood will glow even brighter thanks to a new event that’s sure to be a family favorite. Harvey’s Boo Bash, hosted by Dollywood’s pumpkin mascot Harvey, will take place on October 16, 23 and 30.
The limited-capacity, separately ticketed nighttime event begins after the park closes for the day, offering exclusive access to attractions, entertainment, trick-or-treating stations and special themed treats. Guests will also get to enjoy Great Pumpkin LumiNights, Dollywood’s award-winning display of carved pumpkins and glowing art installations that light up the park during the Harvest Festival presented by Humana (Sept. 14–Oct. 31).
New this year: a nightly dance party to keep the fall fun going after dark, along with a fresh culinary celebration, Apple Jack’s Market, transforming the Rivertown and Market Square areas into an autumn wonderland devoted to apple-inspired eats. Nearby, The Village will feature Tassletop Junction, where guests can enjoy roasted corn and other harvesttime favorites.
A year-round celebration of color, music and light
The lineup for Dollywood’s 2026 season reads like a love letter to the Smokies—vibrant, musical, and heartfelt. The season kicks off with the return of the I Will Always Love You Music Festival (March 13–April 12), featuring “From the Heart — The Life & Music of Dolly Parton,” a musical journey through Dolly’s life from Sevier County to Nashville, told through her own narration and iconic songs.
Then, the park’s Flower & Food Festival (April 18–June 7) will showcase more than half a million blooms, larger-than-life floral sculptures, and a menu of seasonal dishes created by Dollywood’s award-winning culinary team.
Summer brings the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City (June 15–Aug. 2), featuring the ever-popular Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show—which will include a special patriotic salute in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Guest-favorite shows like Bubble Evolution and Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience also return to keep families entertained all season long.
And of course, no Dollywood season would be complete without Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana (Nov. 6–Jan. 3). With six million lights, live holiday shows, and heartwarming Southern traditions, it continues to hold the title of “Best Theme Park Christmas Event” in the world.
Splash Country gets in on the fun
Dollywood’s water park, Splash Country, will launch its 26th season on May 23, running daily through Aug. 9 and weekends through Sept. 20. For the first time ever, the park will debut Neon Nights, a glow-themed after-dark event featuring a live DJ, neon décor, and extended slide hours. Dates and details will be announced soon but expect it to be the most colorful summer party in the Smokies.
Passes, perks, and where to stay
Season passes for Dollywood’s 2026 season go on sale to the general public Nov. 1, with options for every visitor — from budget-friendly Silver to all-access Diamond passes. Guests who buy now can visit this year’s Smoky Mountain Christmas for free.
Higher-tier passes offer major perks, including free parking, Bring-A-Friend tickets, discounts on dining and lodging, and early TimeSaver access to skip the lines during the first hour of each operating day. Families can also take advantage of the Pre-K Imagination Season Pass, which gives free admission to kids born in 2021 or 2022.
For guests planning a longer stay, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort offer exclusive on-site benefits like complimentary TimeSaver passes, transportation to the park, and package delivery for purchases made in-park.
“NightFlight Expedition is a game-changing attraction for our industry,” Dollywood President Eugene Naughton said. “Between the new race weekend, Harvey’s Boo Bash and everything in between, there’s no doubt 2026 is going to be our best yet.”
For details or to purchase passes, visit Dollywood.com.
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