Dollywood's 39th operating season has started with the new I Will Always Love You Music Festival, inspired by Dolly Parton's iconic song. The festival features live performances, themed souvenirs, and limited-time food offerings. Don't miss out on this exciting event!
Dollywood's 39th Season Begins with I Will Always Love You Music Festival
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
Dollywood's 39th operating season has officially begun in Pigeon Forge, TN, and the park's namesake, Dolly Parton, made a special appearance to express her gratitude to the hardworking team members who create a warm and welcoming experience for guests.
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
This season, the park is kicking off the new I Will Always Love You Music Festival, inspired by the 50th anniversary celebration of Dolly's iconic song.
During the kickoff event, Dolly showcased some of the new entertainment offerings based on her extensive library of signature songs.
The Trio, Again featuring Three Times A Lady, performed harmonies reminiscent of Dolly's collaborations with Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt.
Another highlight was the Sing-a-long with Dolly, where Dolly herself led the crowd in singing her hit song "Two Doors Down."
The ensemble from the Broadway-style show, From the Heart—The Life & Music of Dolly Parton, also performed snippets from the production, including "9 to 5" and the beloved duet with Kenny Rogers, "Islands in the Stream."
These shows are part of the I Will Always Love You Music Festival, which will run until April 14th.
Dolly Parton's Motorcade and Exciting Experiences at Dollywood
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
One of the beloved traditions of Dollywood's opening day is Dolly Parton's motorcade through the park.
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
Guests are given complimentary pompoms and fans to grab the attention of the multi-talented superstar as she rides through the streets.
Excitingly, Dollywood will soon offer even more Dolly Parton experiences with the opening of The Dolly Parton Experience on May 24th.
This new multi-building exhibit triples the size of the previous Chasing Rainbows Museum.
The Songteller exhibit will take visitors on a journey through Dolly's life, from her humble beginnings in Sevier County to her global success on stages and screens.
The exhibit will feature mementos from her illustrious career, and a 360-degree projection-mapped gallery will allow Dolly to share her story in her own words.
Behind the Seams will focus on Dolly's iconic fashion choices, while Precious Memories will honor the important people in Dolly's life who helped her achieve her dreams.
Additionally, the Dreamsong Theater will host a new show called Heidi Parton's Kin & Friends, written by Dolly Parton and her niece Heidi Parton, who will headline the music-filled performance.
I Will Always Love You Music Festival and Seasonal Festivals at Dollywood
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
The I Will Always Love You Music Festival utilizes all the performance venues in the park, and this trend will continue for all the seasonal festivals at Dollywood.
( Credit to: Laughingplace )
While the festival primarily focuses on music, there are also limited-time food offerings available only during the festival, most of which are as sweet as Dolly and in her favorite color - pink.
For fans looking to bring home a piece of the festival, there is a line of themed souvenirs available, including items inspired by the hit song "Coat of Many Colors."
Among these souvenirs is a teddy bear made from the same type of rags that Dolly's mother used to create the coat that inspired the song and picture book.
With 23 extra days of operation this year, 2024 is shaping up to be one of the best times to visit Dollywood.
The I Will Always Love You Festival will conclude on April 14th, but there are plenty of other fan-favorite festivals to look forward to throughout the season.
These include the Dollywood's Flower & Food Festival presented by Covenant Health from April 19th to June 9th, Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City from June 15th to August 11th, Dollywood's Harvest Festival presented by Humana from September 9th to October 28th, and Dollywood's Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana from November 1st to January 5th.
If you live close enough to visit multiple times during the season, becoming a Dollywood passholder might be worth considering.
Currently, Dollywood is running a promotion with the purchase of Gold and Silver Passes, offering a Bring-A-Friend Free ticket along with the standard pass benefits.
However, it's important to note that season pass prices will increase on March 27th, so don't wait too long if you're interested in becoming a passholder.
For more information, visit Dollywood.com.