Many of my friends claim that once Halloween is over, the Christmas season begins. I generally disagree because I like to cherish every moment of the fall I can, but there is one exception.
If you have never visited Dollywood, especially at Christmas time, do yourself a favor and take the trip. Dollywood is the magical and festive amusement park of the South located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The Christmas season lasts through Jan. 5, 2025. Smoky Mountain Christmas, the official festival name at the park for the season offers over six million twinkling lights.
One of my favorite sights in the park is the gigantic Christmas tree that comes to life at night. The 50-foot animated tree tells the story of a bear with synchronized music and “snow” at the end. A new addition this year is more snow in the Wildwood Grove section of the park. There is also a fireworks show at the end of the night, and if you are lucky, you can spot Santa on the way out. I have not seen the holiday drone show “Joyful!” but I hear it is incredible.
In addition to the magical twinkling lights and spectacles in the whimsical park, many seasonal shows and plays can make your day merry and bright. I treasure “Twas the Night Before Christmas” in Pines Theater. It is heartwarming and family-friendly, promising to bring yuletide cheer to you and your party. Just a short walk from the festive show is the Lightning Rod, the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster and my favorite ride in the park. The ride has no loops, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it is a mild ride. The coaster was built onto the mountain, and riders dip in, out and around the hilly landscape with minimal idea of which way the tracks are headed. If you want even more excitement and thrill, try riding it at night.
Dollywood’s newest roller coaster is Big Bear Mountain at the back of Wildwood Grove. It is a milder coaster that takes you on an adventure to find the “Grove’s most storied and elusive inhabitant, Big Bear.”
If rollercoasters are not your thing, there are plenty of other entertaining rides, many of them in the County Fair section of the park. The lines in this area are usually much shorter as well.
At the County Fair is the timeless, whistle-blowing Dollywood Express Train. It is a steam-engine train that takes “you on a breathtaking five-mile journey through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.” It is especially jolly in the evening during the holidays when you can see the glittering lights. I recommend getting to the station early because the line gets long quickly.
The park offers something for everyone, and if rides or shows are not your thing, shopping, crafting and dining options abound. The Cinnamon Bread at The Grist Mill is world-famous and made fresh daily. Dollywood also serves 25-pound apple pies at the Spotlight Bakery near the entrance. Many of the restaurants serve barbecue and Southern comfort foods.
Craftsman’s Valley is a unique area that features Craftsmen practicing their trades. Glass-blowing, leatherwork, candle making and a blacksmith are the highlights of the land. The Emporium offers the most extensive selection of gifts and souvenirs out of the shops and serves as the exit to the park.
Lastly, do not forget to take advantage of discounted tickets on ETSU’s website at etsu.edu/students/secure/dollywood-tickets.php.
