Dollywood has kicked off its Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City, welcoming families to a vibrant blend of entertainment, culinary experiences, and signature Appalachian charm through Aug. 3.
As part of its 40th anniversary season, the award-winning theme park is celebrating with new and expanded entertainment offerings, including an upgraded “Sweet Summer Nights” drone and fireworks show. The nighttime spectacular features new scenes that honor Dollywood’s legacy, complete with 3D drone animations, a custom soundtrack, and—new this year—“pyro drones” that combine aerial light and pyrotechnic effects.
By day, guests can cool off at attractions like the popular Bubble Foam Zone or take photos at vivid art installations such as “Kite Sky” and “Sky of Many Colors,” while enjoying dozens of food options created especially for the season. The menu includes chipotle chicken rice bowls, barbeque-glazed bratwurst, and refreshing items like sparkling pomegranate lemonade and mango ice cream bars. Tasting passes, available for $39.99 plus tax ($36.99 for gold and diamond season passholders), offer multiple culinary selections at one price.
Live entertainment remains a focal point of the summer celebration. Returning to the DP’s Celebrity Theater is the “Gazillion Bubble Show – Evolution,” featuring an interactive display of bubbles in all sizes and shapes. Also back by popular demand is “The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience,” spotlighting rescue dogs performing stunts and tricks in the Showstreet Palace Theater.
The “Play On” revue continues at the Pines Theater, celebrating four decades of Dollywood’s award-winning entertainment, while the Imagination Playhouse stages musicals based on titles from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, including “Coat of Many Colors” and “The Little Engine That Could.” For the first time, families can meet beloved characters like Peter Rabbit and Llama Llama during storytime sessions at the theater.
Dollywood’s two resorts—DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort—are also joining the festivities with live entertainment, craft activities, and poolside events. Guests can enjoy strawberry lemonade, paint custom postcards, and participate in Camp DW’s themed pool parties throughout the summer.
Dollywood has been named the No. 1 U.S. theme park by the National Amusement Park Historical Association for the third consecutive year.
For tickets, tasting passes, or lodging details, guests can visit dollywood.com or use the official Dollywood app.
What You Should Read Next:
(Photo: Dollywood Parks & Resorts)
Leave a Reply