Nostalgia tourism is on the rise in 2025 as travelers look to relive favorite childhood family vacations. Dollywood, in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has been one of those favorite family destinations for so many, and Dolly Parton’s beloved Great Smoky Mountains theme park just kicked off its 40th anniversary season on March 15. The season launched with special events, new celebrations and many returning favorites.
“When we opened Dollywood, the main thing I wanted to do was to give families a fun place where they could enjoy time spent together,” Parton said. “I’m so proud of all the people who have worked to make Dollywood what it is today, and I want to thank all the guests who have supported us and trusted us to help them create those days they’ll never forget.”
For the park’s 40th season, there’s a new opening ceremony at the beginning of each operating day; a new anniversary show, Play On; and an even bigger drone and fireworks show. Other entertainment includes a rotation of shows based on books from Dolly’s Imagination Library, while new culinary options and more photo opportunities will be introduced. The March 15 opening also started the “I Will Always Love You” Music Festival, running through April 13.
Original attractions from the park’s opening in 1986 include the Dollywood Express train; Mountain River Rampage, the classic water ride; the Grist Mill where the park’s signature cinnamon bread is baked; and more.
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