Dollywood Park promises new experiences for fans in 2024 season

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WFXR) — Dollywood Theme Park in Pigeon Forge, Tenn. is now open for the season, introducing new experiences and excitement for guests in 2024.

Dolly Parton herself helped kick off the new season on Saturday, March 9, opening up the new season earlier than seasons in the past to attract more of a spring audience and give parkgoers extra days in the park.

“One of the things guests are always asking is, ‘Can you guys open a little earlier,” said Ellen Liston with Dollywood. “We’re trying it this year and it’s worked out pretty well.”

The 2024 season welcomes new experiences for guests of all ages, including the new ‘I Will Always Love You Festival,’ which brings tasty new food, decorations, and three musical shows to the theme park.

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The three shows all focus on the music and life of Dolly Parton. The first show ‘From the Heart’ takes guests throughout the life and times of Dolly through a full-length production, starting with her early life in the Smoky Mountains to her years as an iconic rockstar.

The second show, ‘Trio Again’ is a tribute to the music from the Trio album Dolly Parton did alongside Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt.

The final show, ‘Sing-a-Long with Dolly,’ highlights Dolly’s iconic hits, continuing the legacy of her impact on music. “This is where you’ll find me,’ said Liston, “although Dolly is not physical here, her likeness and all of her songs are, and where you’ll find me probably having cinnamon bread or a strawberry crunch funnel cake.’

The ‘I Will Love You Festival’ will remain open until June.

This year, Dollywood is introducing ‘The Dolly Parton Experience,’ bringing fans a deeper appreciation of the life and career of Dolly Parton in three different parts opening Memorial Day weekend.

The first part is an interactive museum focusing on the life of Dolly Parton and her rise to stardom. “You may feel like you’re getting on the bus to go to Nashville with her!” said Liston.

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‘Behind the Seams,’ is an in-depth look at her wardrobe, costumes, hair, and accessories that remain iconic to this day. Finally, this experience ends with ‘Precious Memories, a tribute to Dolly’s family and faith, giving guests a small peek inside her personal life.

“If you are a Dolly fan, it’s a great place to be this year,” said Liston, “If you are trying to become a Dolly fan it’s the place to be this year, but also you got to ride some of those big roller coasters.”

Liston also said Dollywood has opened new dates on the calendar during 2024, extending all the festivals and shows a little longer for all guests to get the chance to visit.

For more information on Dollywood, its festivals, and experiences debuting in 2024, visit the Dollywood website.

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