Dolly Parton didn’t just show up to celebrate the Dollywood 40th anniversary—she owned it, literally and figuratively.
Dolly Parton herself greeted guests for Dollywood’s 40th anniversary celebration this weekend and That Park Place had a representative on hand! pic.twitter.com/qK8ZSqdnVc
— That Park Place (@TPPNewsNetwork) May 6, 2025
This past weekend, That Park Place had representatives on location in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee to cover the 40th anniversary of Dollywood only to discover that Dolly Parton herself would be in attendance! Fans packed the streets on Friday, May 2, to catch a glimpse of the country music legend as she waved from a parade near the park’s entrance. Signs, cheers, and pure joy filled the air as visitors came not only to celebrate a milestone, but to honor the woman whose vision turned a small mountain attraction into a global destination.
Dollywood opened in 1986, the result of a partnership between Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment. But the park itself dates back even further. Originally launched in the 1960s as Rebel Railroad, the attraction underwent several iterations before Parton came aboard and lent not just her name, but her vision, passion, and unmistakable charm.
Dolly Parton rides through the streets of Dollywood to celebrate the park’s 40th anniversary – Photo Credit: That Park Place
Speaking during the March 2025 season kickoff, Parton recalled the nerves she felt back on opening day.
“On opening day in 1986, I was just hoping that people would really want to come visit a theme park with my name on it,” she said. “And even though I always try to dream big, I’ll admit I was a little bit nervous that first morning.”
Those fears were unfounded. Today, Dollywood spans 165 acres and boasts more than 50 rides and attractions, including standout coasters like the Wild Eagle and Big Bear Mountain. It draws over 2 million guests annually and has expanded to include a water park, luxury resorts, and family-friendly entertainment offerings like the Dolly Parton Stampede.
Dollywood’s Famous Cinnamon Bread
Dollywood’s continued growth is rooted in its unique blend of Southern hospitality, Appalachian culture, thrilling rides, and Dolly’s larger-than-life influence. Even celebrities have taken notice—with names like Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban, Kelsea Ballerini, and Noah Kahan spotted enjoying the park in recent years.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, the park’s location is as much a draw as its rides. Parton once described the area as “just absolutely the most perfect place that God has created,” adding that Dollywood aims to use that beauty to inspire big dreams and unforgettable memories.
Looking ahead, Dollywood has no plans of slowing down. During the March season preview, Dolly and Dollywood Company president Eugene Naughton teased the park’s biggest and most expensive attraction yet.
The main sign at Dollywood. Photo Credit: Sarah Stierch (CC BY 4.0)
Slated to open in 2026, the massive new indoor ride will rise five stories high and span 44,000 square feet. While exact details remain under wraps, a teaser video hinted that the experience will take guests “up, over and through the Great Smoky Mountains and down to the heart of the ancient wildwood tree.”
Dolly Parton has fun with guests at Dollywood’s 40th anniversary celebration – Photo Credit: That Park Place
With 40 years behind it and bold new plans ahead, Dollywood stands as a shining example of what happens when creativity, culture, and community collide. As Dolly continues to dream big, it’s clear that the magic of Dollywood is only just beginning.
Are you surprised that Dolly Parton was at Dollywood to ring in this special anniversary? Sound off in the comments and let us know your thoughts!
