Dolly Parton is gearing up for an extraordinary celebration as Dollywood marks its 40th anniversary in 2025. The park will kick off the festivities with new daily opening ceremonies designed to create a unique atmosphere for each visitor. This addition aims to engage guests right from their arrival, setting a joyful tone for their day at one of America’s most popular theme parks.
A highlight of the anniversary will be a special anniversary show launching on Memorial Day weekend. This performance will showcase beloved moments from the park’s extensive history, allowing guests to reconnect with memorable experiences from past seasons. The celebration will culminate in a spectacular drone and fireworks display during the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, illuminating the skies and providing a stunning visual conclusion to the summer festivities.
Exciting New Attractions Announced
As part of the 40th anniversary celebrations, Dollywood will introduce several exciting attractions. One of the standout additions is the Imagination Playhouse, a permanent fixture featuring plays inspired by stories from Dolly Parton’s own Imagination Library. This year-round attraction will engage families with performances throughout the spring and summer.
Additionally, the park will remaster Heartsong: The Movie, moving it to the newly revamped Dreamsong Theater as part of The Dolly Parton Experience. This feature, running alongside Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends, promises to immerse fans in the world of Parton like never before.
The Country Fair area, a staple of Dollywood, will also undergo a vibrant revamp to enhance its inviting atmosphere. The aim is to draw in visitors with a fresh and colorful experience throughout the year.
Seasonal Festivals to Enhance Experience
Dollywood’s anniversary festivities will coincide with its traditional seasonal festivals, making the 2025 season an exhilarating time for visitors. Kickstarting the celebrations will be the I Will Always Love You Music Festival, set to run from March 15 to April 13 and celebrate renowned songwriters.
As spring transitions into summer, guests can enjoy the Flower and Food Festival, followed by the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, featuring exclusive events and entertainment. The year won’t end without welcoming the popular Harvest Festival in the fall and the return of the Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival, which will continue into January 2026. Each festival promises unique events that will ensure a memorable experience for all who attend.
Season Pass Options for Enthusiasts
To accommodate fans eager to experience the 40th anniversary, Dollywood is offering various season pass options. There are three tiers available: Diamond, Gold, and Silver, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Pricing for these passes ranges from $159 to $359, excluding tax.
Current season pass holders can take advantage of special offers, which will be available when general sales commence on October 28, 2024. Early buyers can expect perks such as free parking, TimeSaver options, discounts on lodging and dining, and Bring-A-Friend tickets.
As anticipation builds for Dollywood’s 40th anniversary, guests can look forward to a year filled with unforgettable experiences and engaging attractions. With Dolly Parton’s spirit at the heart of the celebrations, the park is all set to bring laughter and joy to families visiting from near and far. As Parton herself remarked, “We’ve been making memories for folks here at my Dollywood for 40 years,” symbolizing the enduring legacy of the park she built to bring families together.