Dollywood is pulling out all the stops for its 40th anniversary season, kicking off March 14 for season passholders. Following a record-breaking 2024, the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, theme park is set for another landmark year, marked by more than 100 off-season construction projects aimed at enhancing the guest experience.
With new attractions, expanded dining options, and an entertainment lineup paying tribute to four decades of family fun, Dollywood’s milestone season promises to be its most exciting yet.
Dollywood President Eugene Naughton credits the park’s ongoing success to its deep commitment to guest satisfaction.
“Our guests continue to tell us that the experience provided at Dollywood leaves them with a feeling of attentiveness and care; they can’t find many places,” Naughton said. “Last season, Tripadvisor named us the top U.S. theme park based on guest reviews, and we were also recognized as the #1 attraction in the world that visitors most long to return to after their first visit.”
The season also brings additional milestones, including the 25th anniversary of Dollywood’s Splash Country and the 10th anniversary of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa.
Major Enhancements and Expansion
A key addition this season is the Wilderness Pass Restaurant, a 400-seat dining location offering rotisserie chicken—making its Dollywood debut—alongside smoked meats, braised beef, and classic Southern sides like hush puppies and mac and cheese. The restaurant, located between FireChaser Express and Mystery Mine, provides both indoor and patio seating, expanding the park’s dining options with a fresh, guest-friendly approach.
Beyond the new restaurant, Dollywood is undergoing a series of infrastructure improvements, including a 750-space parking lot set to open later this spring. The Country Fair area, a favorite for families with young children, is receiving a vibrant refresh featuring a splash pad and expanded seating areas. Meanwhile, The Village is being enhanced with an upgraded Imagination Playhouse, which will permanently feature performances based on Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library books.
These developments align with Dollywood’s half-billion-dollar expansion plan, announced in 2021, aimed at sustaining the park’s long-term growth while preserving its signature charm.
“We really do offer something different here,” Naughton said. “Our hosts make a true connection with our guests, making them feel like they’re part of the family. Those connections can’t be bought and are what attract so many people to visit.”
A Season Packed with Entertainment
Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season brings a mix of beloved returning productions and brand-new shows celebrating the park’s legacy.
Highlights include:
• “Play On” (debuting May 3) – A retrospective show featuring music and moments from Dollywood’s most popular productions over the years.
• “From the Heart—The Life and Music of Dolly Parton” – Returning after winning the industry’s Best New Show award in 2024.
• The Gazillion Bubble Show presents EVOLUTION and Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience, both guest favorites returning for another season.
• Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends, a show headlined by Dolly’s niece, celebrating the family’s musical heritage.
• Heartsong: The Movie, remastered and relocated to Dreamsong Theater as part of The Dolly Parton Experience.
Character meet-and-greets will also be available during the summer festival, further immersing guests in Dollywood’s family-friendly atmosphere.
Seasonal Festivals and Special Events
Dollywood’s 2025 festival lineup brings back its most popular seasonal celebrations, with special additions to mark the park’s milestone year.
• I Will Always Love You Music Festival (March 15 – April 13) – Honoring Dolly Parton’s musical legacy with live performances and themed culinary offerings.
• Flower & Food Festival (April 18 – June 8) – Featuring over 500,000 blooms, large-scale Mosaiculture sculptures, and fresh seasonal cuisine.
• Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 14 – Aug. 3) – Showcasing an expanded 40th-anniversary drone and fireworks display alongside daytime and evening entertainment.
• Harvest Festival (Sept. 26 – Nov. 2) – Including Great Pumpkin LumiNights, recognized as the world’s best theme park harvest event.
• Smoky Mountain Christmas (Nov. 8 – Jan. 5, 2026) – Dollywood’s award-winning holiday celebration featuring six million lights and festive performances.
Additionally, Country Fair will transform into Candy Corn Country for the Harvest Festival and return to its winter-themed Peppermint Valley during Smoky Mountain Christmas.
Season Passes and Special Offers
Dollywood is offering multiple season pass options, including Gold, Silver, and the new Volunteer Summer Pass for East Tennessee residents. Passholders receive benefits such as Bring-A-Friend Free tickets, dining and lodging discounts, and TimeSaver line access for expedited ride boarding.
With new attractions, refreshed experiences, and a festival lineup packed with entertainment, Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season is shaping up to be a must-visit milestone year for fans of the beloved Smoky Mountain theme park.
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(Photos and Video: Dollywood Parks & Resorts)
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