Dollywood just cranked its birthday celebration to eleven. The Smoky Mountain theme park’s 40th anniversary coincides with its annual Flower & Food Festival, resulting in a botanical takeover that would make Mother Nature do a double-take.
One million flowers now dominate the landscape through June 8, creating living sculptures that tell stories across the park. The Umbrella Sky installation on Showstreet – think Wes Anderson meets Mary Poppins – suspends hundreds of vibrant umbrellas overhead, creating the kind of kaleidoscopic canopy that transforms ordinary walkways into photo-worthy moments.
The nostalgia hits hardest in “Play On,” a retrospective show that debuted May 3. Like a Netflix series composed entirely of fan-favorite episodes, the production resurrects beloved performances from park shows dating back to 1986. From Country Jubilee’s fiddle performances to Dreamland Drive-In’s high-energy numbers, the show delivers emotional whiplash in the best possible way.
For families, the Imagination Playhouse has found a permanent home in the park’s entertainment landscape. This rotating showcase brings Dolly’s Imagination Library books to life – like TikTok’s BookTok community manifested into three dimensions. Meanwhile, The Dolly Parton Experience expanded with butterfly-themed photo opportunities that create memorable moments for visitors of all ages. This is not the only festival worth traveling to this year however, if you’re looking for more kid-friendly fun, Legoland is the way to go.
As visitors feast their eyes, their ears get treated to exceptional performers. Lauren Jelencovich, winner of Ed McMahon’s “Next Big Star” competition, performs through May 18. The acoustic group The Wilder Flower follows (May 19-June 1) with folk and bluegrass vibes that feel like summer playlist essentials. Vocalist Robinella wraps things up (June 2-8) blending pop, jazz, country, and gospel into a musical bouquet.
The festival’s culinary lineup deserves its own highlight reel. For $43 ($40 for passholders), the tasting pass unlocks five creations from a menu featuring new items. The Salad of Many Colors arranges vegetables in rainbow formation that would make any food influencer reach for their ring light. The wild berry cream cheese funnel cake has quickly become a popular choice among visitors based on social media buzz.
For the best experience, weekdays or early arrivals offer more space to enjoy displays. (Translation: showing up at noon on Saturday is about as strategic as wearing white to a tomato fight.)
As Dollywood celebrates 40 years in the Smokies, local accommodation rates typically increase during festival weekends – the hospitality equivalent of surge pricing. Yet visitors continue flooding in, proving that sometimes the most magical experiences are worth both the wait and the wallet squeeze.
For more information or to purchase tasting passes, visit Dollywood.com or call the park directly.
