Get ready to deck the halls—Dollywood’s 35th annual Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana begins this Saturday, November 1, bringing more than three decades of holiday magic to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Celebrated as a 15-time winner of Best Theme Park Christmas Event, the festival transforms the park into a sparkling winter wonderland with more than 6 million lights, festive music, and the irresistible aromas of holiday treats.
Dolly Parton shared her excitement for the season, saying, “When I want to get in the Christmas spirit, all I have to do is close my eyes and remember all the cherished times and stories with my family through the years. Christmas at Dollywood has a way of bringing those memories back to life—for me and so many people—while creating new traditions to share with loved ones.”
Lights, Snow, and Holiday Magic
From the moment guests enter the park, the glow of ornate lighting displays and sparkling Christmas trees sets the festive mood. Wildwood Grove becomes a snowy wonderland with the Snow in the Grove experience, where snow flurries drift over Wildwood Creek and the Wildwood Tree lights up nightly. Guests can join Dollywood’s playful Christmas characters, Roly and Poly, as the magic unfolds.
Evenings sparkle even brighter with Dollywood’s Merry and Bright! fireworks show, returning on select nights through December 27. Families can sing, dance, and enjoy a dazzling display lighting up the winter sky, with additional performances scheduled for Nov. 30 and Dec. 28–31.
Guests can also explore Glacier Ridge, an expansive arctic-themed light display, or enjoy the reflective beauty of Christmas Reflections in Rivertown. At Country Fair, Peppermint Valley delights visitors with candy cane lights, making the park a feast for the eyes and heart.
Entertainment for All Ages
Dollywood’s holiday entertainment shines on stages across the park. Highlights include the “Christmas in the Smokies” show at Celebrity Theater, running since 1990, and Heidi Parton’s A Christmas To Remember, featuring Dolly’s niece sharing family holiday traditions. Additional performances include ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, O’ Holy Night, and Appalachian Christmas with the Smoky Mountain String Band.
One standout experience is Santa’s List… Naughty or Nice?, where families can see Santa in his Smoky Mountain cabin reviewing his list and chatting with him—just be sure to visit before his last day on December 23!
Holiday Dining and Thrills
Dollywood’s chefs bring holiday cheer to the palate, serving festive creations like Santa’s Skillet Potatoes, holiday stuffing stackers, and sweet treats including mint chocolate brownie sundaes, peppermint twist cupcakes, and classic gingerbread people.
Most of the park’s world-class rides remain operational during the festival, offering a unique perspective on the 6 million-light display from above.
A Gift That Keeps on Giving
A Dollywood Season Pass makes the perfect gift for families looking to extend the holiday magic. Passes purchased during Smoky Mountain Christmas include free admission to the festival and can be used toward the 2026 Season Pass, which includes access to NightFlight Expedition, a groundbreaking new attraction opening in Spring 2026 with four unique ride experiences in one.
Whether you’re creating new traditions or reliving cherished memories, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas promises a holiday experience full of lights, laughter, and family joy.
Dates: November 1, 2025 – January 4, 2026
More info: dollywood.com
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(Photos courtesy Dollywood Parks & Resorts)
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