Exciting Adventures at Pigeon Forge's Favorite Amusement Park, Dollywood

The warm Tennessee sun sits just above the mountaintops as the kids swarm into the wave pool, inner tubes in hand, to ride the crests. You happily enjoy a little downtime in the shade of a nearby canopy, having spent a busy day at Dollywood.

You've soared like a bird of prey on the area's only winged coaster, sung along with your favorite oldies at Dreamland Drive-In, and stepped back in time to an old-fashioned county fair. In addition to all that, you've had a chance to visit Eagle Mountain, the country's largest sanctuary for non-releasable bald eagles. It's been a great vacation, but what more is there to see?

Plenty!

Nights of Many Colors

When the sun goes down this summer, the nights light up at Dollywood. Each evening through late August, you'll experience a fantastical fireworks extravaganza. Brilliant colors bloom overhead, artfully choreographed to a selection of toe-tapping tunes. The sight is spectacular from anywhere in the park, but for an extra-special touch, the Ferris wheel offers a birds-eye view, or grab a seat on a roller coaster for an exciting ride you won't soon forget.

A One-of-a-Kind Water Roller Coaster

River Rush, the newest ride at Splash Country, promises to become a favorite for both water lovers and coaster aficionados. Combining the thrilling plunges and hairpin turns of a top-rated coaster with the wet and wild fun of a water ride, this unusual water roller coaster is one the whole family will enjoy. Bring your suits and prepare to get wet this summer at Dollywood's Splash Country.

Dollywood's A Christmas Carol

The holiday season just isn't complete without a viewing of Charles Dickens' classic tale, and this year Dollywood is pulling out all the stops with a production you won't want to miss. Period costumes, beautifully detailed set decorations, and Dolly herself as the ghost of Christmas past promise to make this an unforgettable holiday event.

Down-Home Southern Cooking

The scent of slow-roasted pork and chicken cooked to juicy perfection will fill the air in summer. If you had a Southern grandma, then you'll feel right at home as you wander the streets of Dollywood. Help yourself to a plate of pulled pork, sweet corn, baked beans, and of course, potato salad. Choose your favorite sauce – from sweet and subtle to smokin' hot – or sample them all. More than 50,000 pounds of barbecue will be served up during this delicious festival, so be sure to get your share.

The Music Never Ends

Nothing reminds us of the South quite like its music. Country, gospel, and bluegrass all have their roots in the region, and Dollywood showcases star performers from these and other genres throughout the year. The theaters of Showstreet feature everything from classic rock to '50s favorites to holiday-themed extravaganzas. At the Barbecue and Bluegrass Festival, though, bluegrass music takes center stage.

More than 250 concerts featuring 22 top performers take place during the festival. You'll enjoy shows by Ricky Skaggs, The Cleverlys, Rhonda Vincent and the Rage, and many others, as you take in all that Dollywood has to offer. Best of all, every concert is included in your park admission, so feel free to drop in on a show whenever the music calls to you.

More Family Fun

For the kids in the family – or just the young at heart – Dollywood has plenty of other activities to enjoy, too. Thrilling rides, a water park, and kid-friendly variety shows make this a true family vacation spot. Spend the day at Splash Country, where you'll find Tennessee's first and only water roller coaster, River Rush, or strap yourself in for a flight on a bird of prey at Wild Eagle. Little ones will love the quieter attractions at the Country Fair, where an ice cream cone is just the thing after a ride on the carousel.

You'll also find a variety of talented craftsmen (and women) demonstrating their skills. You and the kids will be fascinated to discover how glassblowing works, how candles are made, and more. While you're there, don't forget to pick up a one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your trip.

Experience the best of the South at Dollywood during the Barbecue and Bluegrass Festival. Great food, fantastic music, and plenty of family fun combine for a magical, memorable vacation you and your family will treasure. No matter when you visit, Dollywood has a great lineup of new events and musical numbers to entertain your whole family. From summer evenings filled with fireworks to feel-good holiday gatherings, every trip to Pigeon Forge's favorite family fun spot is a new adventure. Just a short drive from your Wears Valley cabin.