Dollywood has announced its opening date for the 2027 season, the first to begin since the death of its dreamer-in-chief, Dolly Parton.
The park’s 42nd season opens to season passholders on 10 March, followed by the public opening on 11 March.
Next year, the park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee will introduce a new character called the Dream Maker to the Wildwood Grove area.
Per a press release, the Dream Maker will encourage guests to "dream big, believe in themselves and lift others up through courage and kindness".
Dollywood's newest addition, the $60 million NightFlight Expedition attraction, has opened to guests Dollywood
Additionally, the new NightFlight Expedition ride will be open for its first full season next year.
“Every season at Dollywood brings something different, and there’s always a new reason to experience the park and the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains around us,” said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts' president.
"With new experiences and returning traditions for our guests to love, 2027 is the perfect year to get a season pass to make memories again and again."
As well as setting an opening date, Dollywood has unveiled its 2027 events calendar, which is as follows:
- I Will Always Love You Music Festival (11 March - 11 April)
- Run Dollywood spring event (23 April - 25 April)
- Flower & Food Festival (7 May - 20 June)
- Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (26 June - 8 August)
- Barbecue & Bluegrass (3 September - 6 September)
- Harvest Festival (11 September - 31 October)
- Run Dollywood fall event (24 September - 26 September)
- Harvey's Boo Bash (select dates in October)
- Smoky Mountain Christmas (5 November - 2 January)
- Run Dollywood Christmas event (12 November - 14 November)
Dollywood, opened in 1986, features award-winning shows alongside 40 rides and attractions at its Tennessee theme park Dollywood
To celebrate the life and legacy of Dolly Parton, who died on 25 August, Dollywood is creating several new experiences and installations.
Meanwhile, Dolly Parton's SongTeller Hotel and Dolly’s Life of Many Colors Museum have opened in Nashville.
