Dollywood is celebrating another Christmas season, but this time it’s a bit different: it marks the first since the passing of its founder, country music icon Dolly Parton. The Tennessee-based theme park is welcoming Christmas visitors without the artist who helped shape its worldwide identity.

Dolly passed away on August 25, 2026, making the 2026 Smoky Mountain Christmas more momentous for longtime fans. Despite the personal loss, the park has maintained its holiday tradition by lighting up the property and featuring seasonal performances and festive attractions that welcome guests.

The 2026 celebration, presented by Humana, officially opened on November 6, per Dollywood’s official website. More than 6 million lights shimmered throughout the theme park, creating a perfect festive vibe. Multiple familiar attractions have returned to draw visitors, so longtime fans can enjoy Christmas traditions tied to Dollywood’s legacy.

Highlights at Dollywood this year

One of this year’s main highlights is Snow in the Grove, per Dollywood’s official website. It features artificial snowfall around Wildwood Creek, along with the illuminated Wildwood Tree and appearances by colorful Holiday characters.

Guests can also enjoy Glacier Ridge, a lighting display spread throughout the park inspired by the Arctic. Peppermint Valley features candy cane-inspired decorations. Christmas Reflections adds more appeal, with its shining trees reflecting across the water in Rivertown Junction.

Beyond its big lighting display, Dollywood is set to bring back major attractions such as Christmas in the Smokies, returning to the Celebrity Theater, as well as a festival musical production. Also, guests can enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, Appalachian Christmas with the Smoky Mountain String Band, and O Holy Night.

Visitors can also enjoy food options that the park provides, including mint chocolate chip brownie sundaes, candy cane cupcakes, gingerbread cookies, and more.

The 2026 Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival began on November 6, 2026, and will run until January 3, 2027, giving visitors several weeks to experience the holiday spectacle and celebrate Christmas 2026 with a bang.

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