Dollywood is taking a break. As of January 5, Dolly Parton’s beloved theme park is officially closed for its annual winter hiatus.
Owned in part by the legendary Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment, Dollywood has grown into much more than just a theme park.
Dolly Parton’s Beloved Theme Park
Though it has gone by various names over the decades, its strong association with Parton began in the mid-80s. Since then, it’s become a tribute to her career and Southern heritage. Among the Parton-inspired additions are the Dolly Parton Experience, a museum celebrating her life and achievements, and Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home, a replica of the country icon’s humble childhood abode.
While thrill-seekers may flock to Dollywood for adrenaline-pumping rides like Lightning Rod and Wild Eagle, the park also offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy Southern Gospel music performances and watch skilled craftsmen showcase traditional crafts during the annual Harvest Festival.
Over the holiday season, Dollywood dazzles guests with Smoky Mountain Christmas, a spectacular event featuring millions of holiday lights, festive treats, and musical performances.
Dollywood Closes to All Guests
However, after wrapping up its 2024 Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration on January 5, Dollywood is now closed to the public until March 15, 2025, when it will reopen for the spring season.
Those with season passes can enjoy a special preview day on March 14. The park’s water park, Dollywood’s Splash Country, will open two months later, on May 10, when the weather is expected to be warmer.
Unfortunately, Dollywood had a rough 2024 season, facing multiple disruptions. Despite being named the best theme park in the United States by Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, the park experienced significant operational issues, including a water main leak and flash flooding during the summer.
Both incidents forced the park to close unexpectedly. In September, Hurricane Helene caused further disruption, and in December, the park was shut down early due to freezing temperatures. On its final day of operations for the season, Dollywood also adjusted its hours due to inclement weather, closing earlier than usual.
Did you have a chance to visit Dollywood last year, or are you planning a trip once the park reopens in 2025?
