Dolly Parton's beloved Smoky Mountain theme park shut its gates Sunday, wrapping up a milestone 40th anniversary season. Dollywood said goodbye to guests on January 4, 2026, marking the start of its annual off-season closure, which will last until spring.
40th Season Ends After Weekend Finale
Dollywood's final operating day for 2025-2026 was Sunday, January 4, concluding the Smoky Mountain Christmas Celebration. The Pigeon Forge attraction posted on Instagram following the season's end:
We've loved making memories worth repeating with you! 🦋 Thank you for making our 40th anniversary season unforgettable.
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Unfortunately, the Tennessee theme park's 40th anniversary celebration wasn't entirely smooth. The Dollywood Express steam train unexpectedly shut down in December due to technical problems, despite having been refurbished earlier in the year. Instagram comments from disappointed guests indicate the attraction never reopened before Dollywood closed for the season.
Days before the season concluded, Dollywood faced social media backlash over newly installed high-tech fountain beverage machines. The computerized dispensers track the amount of soda and other self-serve drinks each guest consumes, preventing anyone from receiving more than one refill. The system drew criticism from visitors who felt the restriction diminished the park experience.
Spring 2026 Reopening Date Set
Dollywood won't stay closed for long. The theme park returns for its 41st season on Friday, March 13, 2026. The reopening marks the start of the I Will Always Love You Music Festival, which will run through April 12.
Dollywood's traditional seasonal events continue from there. The Flower & Food Festival follows in the spring, Smoky Mountain Summer takes over during the warmer months, and the Harvest Festival arrives in the fall, featuring Great Pumpkin LumiNights.
Something To Look Forward To
Dollywood is adding Harvey's Boo Bash to its 2026 calendar—the park's first-ever, separately ticketed after-hours Halloween event. The special nighttime experience will operate on select nights, similar to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort and Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland Resort.
Which Dollywood attractions are must-dos for your family? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments!
So Dramatic. Anything to attract unsuspecting readers.
Who cares that Dollywood closed for the season only to open in a few months.
Grow up and write real stories and not this Cr*p