Events

Early April-Early May

Festival of Nations

Dollywood is your window to the world as the multicultural Festival of Nations presents performances by more than 300 entertainers, artisans and craftsmen from around the globe.

Folk art, pottery, jewelry, home decor and other unique handmade crafts from more than 30 countries are displayed for sale at Ten Thousand Villages, a non-profit marketplace that supports artisans from Third World Countries.

Kidsfest:  June-August

A summer jam-packed with special entertainment like VeggieTales, daring Extreme Sports,
and an amazing trained dog show, all in addition to Dollywood’s thrilling rides and attractions!

Harvest Celebration

Late September-late October

Features Southern Gospel Jubilee, Crafters and woodworking demonstration, woodcarving showcase, and a Caricature Carving Competition and Exhibit. Among the crafts presented are:

Custom Glassworks

Features a beautiful collection of handmade glass ornaments, figurines and pendants. Each piece is a welcome addition to any collection.

Grist Mill

The aroma of cinnamon bread lures you in, and  the wide variety of gourmet mixes, cookbooks and kitchen decor keep you interested. Stone-ground meal prepared on the spot is available for purchase too.

Lye Soap

In the mountains of East Tennessee, people have made lye soap for centuries. From a large kettle atop a smoking fire, it’s handmade daily by local  lye soap makers.

Music in the Valley

Beginning musicians and professionals alike will enjoy the selection of handmade guitars and dulcimers. Watch these skilled craftsmen create beautiful sounding instrumenets.

Old Flames Candles

An unbelievable range of shapes, sizes and scents are presented, along with unique accessories. Children especially enjoy the chance to “dip their own candles” in various colors of wax to create a special keepsake.

Rainbow Glass Blowing Factory

One-of-a-kind glass creations in a range of colors and patterns decorate this shop. Watch the glassblower breathe life into unique pieces including serving pitchers, vases and ornaments.

Smoky Creek Leather

See leather hand-tooled into one-of-a-kind hats, vests and jackets here. Dollywood’s master craftsmen create hard-to-find leather accessories and apparel for all ages.

Smoky Mountain Slate Works

Actual slate roof tiles become the canvas for beautifully painted and decorated scenes. Featuring intricate design and detail, the tiles make lovely home accent pieces.

Sweet Dreams Candy Shop

The candy makers offer homemade peanut brittle, taffy, and fudge, making this the place in town to satisfy the sweet tooth.

Valley Carriage Works

Dollywood’s wagon makers craft a variety of buggies and carriages. You can watch the talented wainwrights at work with authentic tools in a setting much like that you would have seen a century ago.

Watson’s Stained Glass

This shop offers beautiful pieces including light panels that provide an interesting decorative element to any home.

Woodcarving Shop

Choose from a variety of wood products including mantles and figurines. The selection of wood carving tools, books and blanks is perfect for the do-it-yourselfer who wants to explore the art.

Winterfest  Early November

865-453-8574

Located City Wide, This four month festival is filled with special events, light displays, and Southern hospitality and features famous light displays which include whimsical, patriotic, and holiday arrangements, including a Mother Goose series, as well as a military salute featured at Patriot Park. ,

Arts and Entertainment

Dixie Stampede began as a dream for Dolly Parton. Today, it is one of the most spectacular dinner and shows in Branson, MO; Myrtle Beach, SC; Pigeon Forge, TN, and Orlando, FL. With 32 horses, dozens of cast members and seating for 1,000 around a 35,000 square-foot arena at each facility, Dixie Stampede is Dolly Parton's own creation. "I wanted to recreate the family fun of my childhood, when we'd gather for a friendly competition and enjoy a more-than-filling meal," says Dolly Parton. "With the grand entertainment of the horses and performers, along with a delicious meal, Dixie Stampede is the Most Fun Place to eat anywhere."

The Dixie Stampede concept has been so overwhelmingly successful that Dixie Stampede now entertains visitors in three other locations as well - Branson, MO, Myrtle Beach, SC, and Orlando, FL.