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Dollywood Closes for Winter After 40th Anniversary Season

The park targets a March 13 return that launches the I Will Always Love You Music Festival.

Overview

  • Dollywood finished operations on January 4 and began its routine off-season closure on January 5 following a farewell posted on Instagram.
  • The Dollywood Express steam train experienced technical problems in December and, according to guest comments, did not resume service before the season ended.
  • New computerized self-serve beverage machines that limit refills to one drew criticism from visitors on social media in the final days of the season.
  • The park plans to reopen for its 41st season on Friday, March 13, with the I Will Always Love You Music Festival scheduled through April 12.
  • Dollywood has announced Harvey’s Boo Bash for 2026 as a separately ticketed after-hours Halloween event on select nights.