It’s official: Dollywood has officially closed its doors for the winter season following the conclusion of its annual Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration on January 5.
Jointly owned by Herschend Family Entertainment and country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood has been a cornerstone of Pigeon Forge tourism since 1986, with Parton-inspired attractions such as the Dolly Parton Experience museum and a replica of the singer’s famed “Tennessee mountain home.”
Dollywood’s roots trace back to the 1960s, when the site operated under various names, including Rebel Railroad and Silver Dollar City. It wasn’t until 1986, when Dolly Parton partnered with Herschend Family Entertainment, that the park transformed into Dollywood. Parton’s involvement brought national attention and a personal touch that highlighted her Smoky Mountains upbringing and celebrated Appalachian culture.
Beyond its entertainment offerings, Dollywood plays a vital role in the local economy. The park employs thousands of workers and attracts millions of visitors annually, significantly contributing to the region’s tourism revenue. Its commitment to preserving Appalachian traditions through events like its Harvest Festival is what separates the park from its biggest competitors, such as Disney and Universal.
Smoky Mountain Christmas Marks the End of Dollywood’s 2024 Season
Dollywood’s holiday season—known as Smoky Mountain Christmas—is particularly beloved, introducing more than six million Christmas lights, festive treats, and live performances to the park.
However, as with previous years, the end of Smoky Mountain Christmas on January 5 has ushered in the end of Dollywood’s 2024 season.
The park will remain closed for roughly two months of winter maintenance. It is set to reopen on March 15, 2025, with a special Passholder Preview Day on March 14. Meanwhile, its adjacent water park, Dollywood’s Splash Country, will reopen on May 10, 2025, when warmer weather returns.
A Season of Highs and Lows
Despite being named the top theme park in the United States in Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, Dollywood faced significant challenges throughout the year.
Unexpected closures disrupted operations on multiple occasions. A water mains leak in the summer forced an abrupt shutdown, followed weeks later by flash flooding that injured one guest and left others wading through water to retrieve their cars.
In September, Hurricane Helene caused further disruptions, and freezing temperatures in December once again shuttered the park early.
Even the final day of the 2024 season was affected, with operating hours shortened due to more inclement winter weather. Despite these setbacks, Dollywood’s two on-site resorts, DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort, remained operational.
Dollywood’s upcoming spring reopening promises a fresh start, offering visitors another chance to explore its blend of thrill rides, Southern Gospel music, and traditional craftsmanship. Until then, fans of the park will have to wait patiently as it prepares for what will hopefully be a smoother 2025 season.
Do you plan on visiting Dollywood in 2025?
I have never been to Dollywood would really love to visit in 2025. And I really LOVE DOLLY PARTON ONE OF MY GRESTEST MEMORIES OF MY DAD WAS GOING TO A DOLLY PARTON CONCERT WIT HIM, AND ALSO AN ANDY WILLIAMS CHRISTMAS CONCERT. MY DAD SADLY PASSED AWAY IN 2000 FROM BRAIN CANCER HE WAS ONLY 67 YEARS OLD.
If you ever go be sure to stop by the grist mill and get the cinnamon bread. There’s always a line and it never disappoints. Be sure to yell ‘howdy’ when riding the train per instruction, as it’s the friendliest place in the smokies! And the shows are top notch. The only ride remaining that was there from it’s Silver Dollar City days is the Blazing Fury, so be sure to check it out. As you may have guessed, I’ve been going since it was Silver Dollar City (but I was only about 6-8 then!)