Dollywood, recently recognized by Tripadvisor as the #1 U.S. theme park, is preparing for a monumental 2026 season filled with major expansions, new festivals, and exclusive guest experiences. Beginning March 13, 2026, the park’s 41st season promises to be one of its most exciting yet, led by the debut of NightFlight Expedition, a one-of-a-kind, multi-experience attraction that represents the largest investment in Dollywood’s history.
The Next Great Adventure: NightFlight Expedition
Opening in Spring 2026, NightFlight Expedition marks Dollywood’s most ambitious project to date, with a $50 million investment bringing to life the world’s first indoor family hybrid coaster and whitewater raft ride. The five-and-a-half-minute experience takes guests on an adventure through the Smoky Mountains at night, blending coaster thrills, whitewater rapids, and scenic flight simulations into one seamless attraction. Guests will journey through more than 500,000 gallons of water, glide above glowing forest scenes, and end their ride across a shimmering lake filled with bioluminescent light.
“I’m so proud of what the park has become in its first 40 years,” said Dolly Parton, founder and namesake of the park. “When we first opened, I could never have dreamed we’d create something like this. It’s big, it’s different, and it shows just how much our guests inspire us to dream bigger every year.”
New Events and Seasonal Celebrations
While NightFlight Expedition will be the headliner of 2026, Dollywood is also introducing a variety of new seasonal events:
- Run Dollywood Race Weekend (April 25–26, 2026): Guests can run through the park and surrounding Smoky Mountains during the inaugural half marathon, 10K, 5K, and kids’ fun run.
- Harvey’s Boo Bash (Oct. 16, 23, and 30): A new limited-capacity Halloween event hosted by Dollywood’s lovable pumpkin mascot, featuring exclusive attractions, trick-or-treating stations, themed food, and an after-hours dance party.
- Apple Jack’s Market and Tassletop Junction: New culinary pop-ups debut during the Harvest Festival, celebrating autumn flavors like apples and corn in themed areas filled with decor and music.
Returning Favorites and Year-Round Fun
Dollywood’s 2026 season also includes the return of several guest-favorite events:
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I Will Always Love You Music Festival (March 13–April 12): Featuring “From the Heart: The Life & Music of Dolly Parton,” an inspiring show that shares Dolly’s journey from Sevier County to Nashville.
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Flower & Food Festival (April 18–June 7): A springtime showcase featuring massive Mosaiculture sculptures and a vibrant menu celebrating the flavors of East Tennessee.
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Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration (June 15–Aug. 2): Returning with the Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show, alongside performances of Bubble Evolution and Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience.
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Harvest Festival (Sept. 14–Oct. 31): Featuring the award-winning Great Pumpkin LumiNights, now enhanced with a nightly dance party and new light displays.
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Smoky Mountain Christmas (Nov. 6–Jan. 3): A tradition of more than six million lights, festive shows, and a warm holiday atmosphere that makes Dollywood one of the country’s top Christmas destinations.
Dollywood will also celebrate America’s 250th birthday throughout the summer with patriotic décor, music, and nightly tributes during the Sweet Summer Nights drone show.
New Additions at Dollywood’s Splash Country
The park’s water park, Dollywood’s Splash Country, reopens May 23 for its 26th season with the debut of Neon Nights, a separately ticketed after-dark event featuring a live DJ, glowing decorations, and late-night attractions.
Season Passes and Resort Experiences
Season passes for Dollywood’s historic 2026 season go on sale November 1, 2025, with four pass levels: Diamond, Gold, Silver, and Summer Fun Pass, plus a free Pre-K Imagination Pass for children born in 2021 or 2022. Diamond and Gold passholders enjoy the most benefits, including free parking, Bring-A-Friend tickets, and early ride access.
Guests can also enhance their stay at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa or the HeartSong Lodge & Resort, both offering TimeSaver passes, complimentary park transportation, and exclusive guest privileges.
Looking Ahead
“NightFlight Expedition is a game changer for our industry,” said Eugene Naughton, President of Dollywood Parks & Resorts. “Combined with new festivals like Run Dollywood and Harvey’s Boo Bash, 2026 will deliver more ways than ever for families to make memories together in the Smokies.”
Janine is a theme park and pop culture nerd from an early age. Since 1994, she’s been traversing the theme park world and has enjoyed all things from Halloween events to new ride releases and beyond. When she’s not at a theme park, she’s probably at a concert or doing something fun with her kiddo.