Celebrating 40 Years of Dollywood: What’s In Store

There’s plenty to look forward to in 2025 at Dollywood! The Pigeon Forge theme park will be going all out to celebrate its 40th anniversary! For four decades, Dollywood has brought smiles, thrills, and unforgettable experiences to millions of guests from all over the world. To commemorate this milestone, Dollywood is planning a spectacular lineup of events, performances, and surprises for visitors of all ages. Here’s everything you can look forward to as Dollywood celebrates 40 years of fun in the Smoky Mountains:

Dollywood Opening Day Celebration

Dollywood opened to season passholders on March 14th at 10 a.m. Watch their opening ceremony below for all the details on new additions to the park and what’s in store for the season:

New Additions to the Park

While you’re able to enjoy all the things you know and love at Dollywood, from the world-famous cinnamon bread to the thrilling roller coasters, Dollywood’s living large for its 40th season! The park is welcoming new shows and entertainment, new experiences, and more. Here’s a highlight of the new additions:

• Each operating day in 2025 will begin with a new opening ceremony.
• A 40th anniversary show is planned to celebrate guests’ favorite shows throughout its history, starting Memorial Day Weekend through the conclusion of summer.
• The Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration will feature a new drone and fireworks show, celebrating 40 years.
• The Imagination Playhouse, featuring plays based on books from Dolly’s Imagination Library, becomes a permanent experience, offering its beloved shows for younger audiences from March through the end of September. It will include character meet-and-greets.
• A remastered version of “Heartsong: The Movie” moves to Dreamsong Theater as part of The Dolly Parton Experience in celebration of the anniversary. It will run in conjunction with “Heidi Parton’s Kin & Friends.”
• The Country Fair portion of the park will be new and improved. The area will transform into “Candy Corn Country,” featuring a “corny” theme and decorations, during the Harvest Festival.
• The bright red and white lights of “Peppermint Valley” return to Country Fair during Smoky Mountain Christmas.
• A new Dollywood sign, reminiscent of the famous Hollywood sign.

About Country Fair’s Upgrades

If you’ve visited Dollywood with younger children, you’re sure to have visited the Country Fair section of the park. If you love it as much as we do, then it’s time to get excited — Country Fair is getting a long overdue refresh. Not only will bright colors liven up the area, but there will be a brand-new splash pad, along with an expanded seating area for the adults to relax while the kids play. As we mentioned before, it will also be decorated in a fun “corny” theme during the fall and with bright red and white lights during the holiday season!

A New Restaurant

Have you heard about the new restaurant at Dollywood? The 2025 season welcomes a brand-new Wilderness Pass Restaurant. You’ll be able to enjoy mouth-watering rotisserie chicken, along with a variety of smoked meats and braised beef. Don’t miss out on delicious sides like hushpuppies, cheddar grits, and mac & cheese!  Be sure to save room for some pineapple upside-down cake or banana bread pudding for dessert.

An Expanded Parking Lot

If you’ve complained about not being able to park at Dollywood before, you’ll love this update! Dollywood is working on a new parking lot, with 750 new spaces expected to open this year.

Ride Improvements

A few fan-favorite rides at Dollywood have received updates as well! We’ve gotten word that the waterfall feature is returning to Blazing Fury, along with a newly updated track. Tennessee Tornado received a fresh coat of paint as well! If you missed it, an exciting new attraction is coming to Dollywood in 2026 too — stay tuned for details!

A Look Back at Dollywood’s History

Dollywood’s 40th anniversary celebration isn’t just about the park itself; it’s about the millions of unforgettable memories created over the years! Families who visit will have a chance to share their stories and celebrate their favorite Dollywood traditions. Interactive displays will showcase the park’s history through photographs and guest memories while unique photo opportunities will be available for guests.

Dolly’s Personal Touch

As always, Dolly herself is expected to be at the heart of the celebration. Known for her hands-on involvement and heartfelt connection to Dollywood, she’s expected to be a part of the festivities in exciting ways! Whether it’s a special appearance, surprise performances, or heartfelt messages throughout the park, Dolly’s influence is sure to shine bright during this year-long celebration. Stay tuned for more details about Dolly’s personal involvement!

Commemorative Merchandise

No anniversary celebration is complete without a few exclusive souvenirs! Dollywood’s shops will sell limited-edition 40th anniversary merchandise throughout the 2025 season, giving guests the chance to take home a piece of history. From 40th anniversary apparel to collectable items that celebrate the park’s journey over the last four decades, you’ll find the perfect keepsake to commemorate this special occasion.

Will we see you at Dollywood in 2025 to celebrate the theme park’s 40th anniversary? Find out everything you need to know about Dollywood ticket prices for the 2025 season!