Dollywood announces big plans for 2023
Although Dollywood has been having a great year, the popular Pigeon Forge, Tennessee theme park isn’t resting on its laurels and has announced big plans for its upcoming season. Here’s what you can look forward to when you visit next year.
Rendering by Dollywood
By Jill Robins
The debut of Big Bear Mountain
Big Bear Mountain will be the longest roller coaster in Dollywood’s history. The nearly 4,000-foot-long coaster features onboard audio, three separate launches, multiple airtime hills, high-speed turns, and tunnels. Despite all these thrills, this attraction has a 39-inch height requirement that will allow younger riders to enjoy the ride.
More days to have fun
Dollywood guests and season pass holders can enjoy an additional 15 days of fun in 2023. The additional days come throughout the year, which means guests can enjoy more of everything the 2023 season has to offer.
A brand-new celebration
A celebration dedicated to one of Dolly’s biggest hits, “I Will Always Love You” is happening from March 11-April 8. This coincides with the 50th anniversary of this monumental song and honors Dolly’s status as an iconic songwriter. The event will also recognize several noted singers and songwriters (yet to be announced) with headline performances throughout the festival. Up-and-coming artists will also get their chance to shine at the Songwriters’ Showcase in Showstreet Palace Theater.
Festivals we know and love
Dollywood’s popular festivals are back for 2023:
• Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival happens from April 21-June 4. Bright flower sculptures and Dollywood’s culinary team are the stars of the show.
• Dollywood’s Sweet Summer Nights takes place from June 17-Aug. 6. Highlights of this festival include fireworks shows and other popular shows, such as the returning Gazillion Bubble Show Aurora and Bubble Foam Zone.
• Dollywood’s Harvest Festival begins Sept. 22 and runs through Nov. 4. This fun festival celebrates fall with thousands of carved pumpkins, musical performances, and creative culinary items.
• The 2023 season will end with Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Nov. 11, 2023-Jan. 6, 2024. Guests will enjoy five million lights, festive holiday shows, and more.
2023 Season Passes
There are three season pass levels: Diamond, Gold, and Silver. The Dollywood Diamond Season Pass offers the most benefits, with four bring-a-friend tickets, Saturday early ride times, season access to Dollywood Splash Country, and more. Diamond and Gold Season Pass members received access to special “Golden Events” and exclusive access. Silver Season Passes include two bring-a-friend tickets and are subject to blackout dates.
The 2023 passes will go on sale to the general public on Oct. 31. If you have a current Dollywood Season Pass, you can purchase passes now through Oct. 30 at a reduced price. The Pre-K Imagination Season Pass allows free admission all season long to children born in 2018 or 2019.
For more information about Dollywood’s 2023 season or season passes, visit Dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app.
