Dollywood Marks 40th Anniversary with Expanded Attractions and New Guest Programs
Photo Credit: Dollywood Parks & Resorts
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn., May 2, 2025 (ENTERTAINMENT INTERVIEWS) — Theme park company Dollywood Parks & Resorts has announced the celebration of its 40th season. Originally launched in 1986 by entertainer Dolly Parton and partner Herschend Family Entertainment, the park has expanded into a nationally recognized destination featuring rides, live entertainment, lodging, and seasonal events.
Dollywood commemorated its anniversary with a media and season passholder event on-site, attended by Parton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton, and Peter Herschend. The event included reflections on the park's history and a preview of its 40th anniversary retrospective show "Play On," set to debut during the celebration.
“I’ve always believed the Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places God ever made, and I feel blessed to call them home. When I first dreamed of creating Dollywood, I had two simple hopes. I wanted to build a place that would bring people from all over to see the magic of the Smokies and, hopefully, fall in love with them just like I did. And I knew that when they came, they’d meet the folks who live here and feel the kindness and hospitality that make this place so special. I think that’s why Dollywood keeps being named one of the best theme parks in the world—it’s not just the beauty of the mountains, it’s the heart of the people who welcome you here,” said Parton.
Photo Credit: Dollywood Parks & Resorts
Recent additions to the park include The Dolly Parton Experience and the Wilderness Pass Restaurant, which opened during the anniversary weekend. Dollywood has also introduced a new parking facility and continues to expand its operations through a $500 million investment plan announced in 2021.
In recognition of its 40th season, Dollywood has launched a complimentary one-time ticket offer for children in Tennessee's foster care system, in collaboration with the state and the Department of Children’s Services.
The park has earned multiple awards in recent years. Since 2022, it has been named Tripadvisor's #1 Best U.S. Theme Park twice and was ranked on Forbes’ Top 300 Best Customer Service list in 2024. Additional accolades include Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Awards, USA Today rankings, and recognition from Newsweek and the National Amusement Park Historical Association.
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Upcoming events for 2025 include the Flower & Food Festival (through June 8), Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 14–August 3), Harvest Festival (September 12–October 27), and Smoky Mountain Christmas (November 1–January 4, 2026).
Dollywood Parks & Resorts encompasses the Dollywood theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park, DreamMore Resort and Spa, and HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
For more information, visit www.dollywood.com.
Source: Dollywood Parks & Resorts
