Dolly Parton surprises fans as Dollywood celebrates 40th season, teases 2026 ride
On March 14, Dollywood opened its 40th season with a media day event that not only celebrated its rich history but also unveiled exciting plans for the 2025-2026 season. The occasion was particularly poignant as it marked Dolly Parton’s first public appearance since the passing of her husband, Carl Dean, on March 3.
Dolly Parton addressed attendees with heartfelt gratitude, expressing her appreciation for the support she received during her time of loss. She stated, “I will always love him, and I’ll miss him, but I wanted you to know that I will always love you, too,” referencing her iconic song “I Will Always Love You.”
The media event showcased Dollywood’s evolution over the past four decades, emphasizing its growth from a regional attraction to a nationally recognized theme park. Parton reflected on her dream of creating a place that celebrates the culture and beauty of the Smoky Mountains, expressing her gratitude for the support from guests and park hosts over the years.
Festivals and events for Dollywood’s 40th anniversary
Looking ahead, Dollywood confirmed the festivals and events for the 2025-2026 season:
- I Will Always Love You Music Festival (March 14 – April 13, 2025): This relatively new festival celebrates the art of songwriting, featuring a diverse lineup of musical performances across various genres. Guests can enjoy live shows, participate in sing-alongs, and explore new festival dining options and merchandise.
- Flower & Food Festival (April 18 – June 8, 2025): Spring comes alive with over 500,000 blooming flowers and larger-than-life Mosaicultures. The Flower & Food Festival also introduces new culinary creations and entertainment options, including indoor and outdoor performances.
- Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 14 – Aug. 3, 2025): Summer Celebration offers extended park hours and nightly fireworks and drone shows commemorating Dollywood’s 40th anniversary. Guests can also enjoy returning favorites like the Gazillion Bubble Show and Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience.
- Harvest Festival (Sept. 12 – Oct. 27, 2025): Harvest Festival features vibrant fall colors, delicious seasonal flavors, and the return of Great Pumpkin LumiNights, showcasing over 12,000 glowing pumpkins. New this year, the Country Fair area will transform into Candy Corn Country, offering unique autumn-themed experiences.
- Smoky Mountain Christmas (Nov. 1, 2025 – Jan. 4, 2026): The industry’s Best Theme Park Christmas event, as named by the Golden Ticket Awards, immerses guests in a winter wonderland adorned with over six million twinkling lights. The Country Fair area becomes Peppermint Valley, and visitors can enjoy festive shows, seasonal dining, and special holiday shopping experiences.
New Dollywood ride teased for 2026
In addition to these festivals, Dollywood revealed plans for a new attraction to debut in 2026. While specific details remain under wraps, a teaser trailer hinted at a “revolutionary experience unlike anything anywhere else in the world.” Dollywood President Eugene Naughton said, “We’re not ready to share the details … but I can promise you, we’re just getting started.”
A few months ago, Pete Owens from Dollywood’s communications team told Attractions Magazine, “It will be an indoor attraction, but it will do things that no other indoor attraction in the world does.”
New additions to Dollywood for 2025
The 2025 season also brings enhancements to existing areas within the park. A new restaurant is set to open in Wilderness Pass in late spring, and The Imagination Playhouse will become a permanent fixture this season. Country Fair received a major face-lift in the off-season, including a new splash pad and expanded seating area.
Another much-needed improvement project that will open in late spring is the 750-space parking lot.
On May 3, the date of the park’s first operational day in 1986, a special 40th anniversary retrospective show will debut. The show will feature songs and scenes from many of the park’s iconic shows from years past.
More surprises ahead for Dollywood 40th anniversary
As Dollywood embarks on its 40th season, the park remains committed to honoring its roots while innovating for the future. Guests are encouraged to consider a 2025 season pass to experience all the “fun and surprises” the Dollywood team has planned for the 40th anniversary year.
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