PIGEON FORGE, TN (WOKI) – The holiday season is arriving at Dollywood as the park prepares to launch its annual Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration on Friday, Nov. 6.
The beloved festival, presented by Humana, transforms the theme park into a festive winter wonderland featuring more than six million lights, award-winning entertainment, seasonal dining and family-friendly holiday experiences. The event runs through Jan. 3, 2027.
Smoky Mountain Christmas has earned national recognition as a 15-time winner of Best Theme Park Christmas Event and remains one of East Tennessee’s most popular holiday attractions.
Millions of Lights Create a Holiday Wonderland
Guests will be immersed in holiday cheer from the moment they enter the park, with dazzling light displays and decorated Christmas trees throughout Dollywood.
One of the signature attractions is Snow in the Grove, where Wildwood Grove is transformed into a snowy holiday setting each evening. Guests can watch as snow falls over Wildwood Creek while the area’s centerpiece tree comes alive with lights and music.
The popular Glacier Ridge experience also returns, bringing colorful arctic-themed displays to several sections of the park, including Timber Canyon, Wildwood Grove, Wilderness Pass and Upper Craftsman’s Valley.
Other holiday displays include:
- Christmas Reflections in Rivertown Junction
- Peppermint Valley in Country Fair
- Thousands of illuminated decorations and themed displays throughout the park
Favorite Christmas Shows Return
Dollywood’s entertainment lineup once again features a variety of Christmas productions for visitors of all ages.
Returning favorites include:
- Christmas in the Smokies
- Heidi Parton’s A Christmas To Remember
- ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
- Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs
- O’ Holy Night
- Appalachian Christmas with the Smoky Mountain String Band
- Candlelight Carolers
Guests will also encounter roaming holiday characters and festive performances throughout the park.
Santa Claus Returns to Dollywood
Families can once again visit Santa’s List… Naughty or Nice?, giving children an opportunity to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes.
Santa also will host special breakfast events at Aunt Granny’s Restaurant on Dec. 12, 13, 19 and 20. The separately ticketed breakfast will be offered at 8:30 a.m. and 10 a.m., with tickets priced at $24.99 for adults and $12.99 for children.
Santa’s final day at Dollywood will be Dec. 23 before beginning his annual Christmas Eve journey.
Seasonal Food and Treats
Dollywood’s culinary team is rolling out a wide variety of holiday-inspired menu items during the festival.
Featured savory offerings include:
- Buffalo chicken stuffed baked potatoes
- Jambalaya
- Loaded potato soup
- Stuffing stackers
- Parmesan rosemary knots
Sweet treats include:
- Red velvet hot chocolate
- Vanilla eggnog
- Candy cane cupcakes
- Mint chocolate chip brownie sundaes
- Gingerbread cookies
- Apple dumplings
- Traditional holiday sugar cookies
Festival Tasting Passes are available for purchase and allow guests to sample multiple seasonal menu items throughout the park.
Christmas Spirit Extends Beyond the Park
Holiday celebrations will also be featured at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort.
Guests staying at either property can enjoy festive decorations, holiday entertainment, seasonal food offerings, campfire activities, crafts and special holiday programming.
Season Pass Specials Available
Dollywood is currently selling 2027 season passes, which include admission to this year’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival and the entire 2027 operating season.
A special military discount is available through Nov. 15 for active-duty service members, veterans and their immediate family members. Eligible guests can save $35 on Silver, Gold and Diamond Season Passes.
Creating New Holiday Traditions
Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton said the festival continues to reflect Dolly Parton’s love of Christmas and the traditions she grew up celebrating in the Smoky Mountains.
Officials say their goal is to provide families with opportunities to create lasting memories while enjoying one of the region’s signature holiday attractions.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas runs from Nov. 6 through Jan. 3, 2027.
