Dollywood Opening Day

The event is called Dollywood Opening Day, a highly anticipated annual celebration that marks the beginning of another vibrant season at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. For locals and repeat attendees, it is often simply referred to as the kick-off to Dollywood’s new year of festivities and adventures.

Dollywood Opening Day is an event designed for a broad and diverse audience, including families, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates the rich cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains. Families with children of all ages will find a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy, from the world-class roller coasters to the traditional crafts and live entertainment. Music enthusiasts will be treated to a variety of performances, including appearances by local and national musical acts, sometimes even featuring Dolly Parton herself or her family members.

The 2025 season of Dollywood officially opens to the public on Saturday, March 15, with a special passholder preview day on Friday, March 14. The park operates on a varied schedule throughout the year, but on opening day, visitors can expect extended hours to make the most of their visit. Special happenings include live music performances, showstopping entertainment, and possibly even a sneak peek at some of the new attractions and improvements added for the new season.

Dollywood is nestled in the heart of the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains metroplex in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The venue itself is a 150-acre amusement destination that includes not only the theme park but also Dollywood’s Splash Country water park, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, and Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction. To get to Dollywood, visitors can fly into the McGhee Tyson Airport, which is approximately 40 miles away, and then use local transportation or rent a car. The park is easily accessible via US Highway 441.

Attending Dollywood Opening Day is an experience that offers something for everyone. The event is unique because it combines the excitement of a new season with the rich cultural and natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Visitors can explore larger-than-life blooming sculptures, dance under a picturesque Umbrella Sky, and indulge in garden-fresh flavors. The park comes alive with daytime and nighttime entertainment, including exhilarating rides on world-class coasters, live music, and nightly fireworks and drone spectaculars.

The setting itself is a major draw, with Dollywood located amidst the stunning backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. The park’s traditional crafts and music of the Smoky Mountain area are on full display, offering a genuine taste of local culture. The Southern Gospel Museum and Hall of Fame, located within the park, adds another layer of depth to the experience.

In summary, Dollywood Opening Day is a celebration that embodies the spirit of community, culture, and family fun. With its diverse array of activities, stunning natural setting, and rich cultural heritage, it is an event that promises to create lasting memories for all who attend. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the energy and appeal of this opening day event make it an absolute must-visit.