Dollywood, the renowned theme park in the heart of Tennessee, prepares meticulously for one of its most magical times of the year - Christmas. Transforming from a typical amusement park to a winter wonderland is no small feat. Here are the five key ways Dollywood gears up for the festive season in 2023:
1. Extensive Decorative Overhaul
From October onwards, the park undergoes a transformation where its regular aesthetic is replaced by glittering lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed decorations:
- Millions of Lights: More than 6 million Christmas lights are hung around the park, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle.
- Themed Areas: Each area of the park adopts its own unique Christmas theme, from the rustic decor of the Wilderness Outpost to the Victorian elegance of Rivertown.
- Living Christmas Trees: Living Christmas trees, both indoors and outdoors, are decorated with ornaments, garlands, and lights, adding to the natural beauty of Dollywood.
🌟 Note: The process of lighting the park takes thousands of man-hours, ensuring that every corner is perfectly adorned for the festive season.
2. Themed Shows and Entertainment
Dollywood’s commitment to holiday entertainment includes:
- Stage Productions: Popular shows like “Christmas in the Smokies” get revamped with new talent and production values.
- Street Performances: Carolers, jugglers, and the like wander the park, adding to the festive atmosphere.
- Santa’s Arrival: Santa Claus makes his grand entrance, often involving a festive parade that kicks off the holiday season.
🎄 Note: The park’s entertainment schedule is packed with over 150 performances throughout the Christmas season.
3. Special Attractions and Events
Dollywood doesn’t just stop at regular park operations:
- Smoky Mountain Christmas: An annual event where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains enveloped in the glow of festive lights.
- LumiNights: A new attraction featuring floating lanterns, moving light sculptures, and interactive light shows.
- Christmas Parade: A nightly procession of beautifully lit floats, festive costumes, and music that captivates visitors of all ages.
4. Festive Food and Drinks
The Christmas season calls for holiday flavors:
- Seasonal Delicacies: Food stands and restaurants introduce limited-time holiday treats like cinnamon-glazed walnuts, eggnog, and festive funnel cakes.
- Unique Beverages: Specialty drinks like hot chocolate, peppermint schnapps, and mulled wine become available throughout the park.
- Themed Dining Areas: Certain areas are transformed into festive dining spots, complete with themed decorations and holiday music.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Christmas Funnel Cake | A sweet treat topped with icing, candy, and edible glitter. |
| Holiday Eggnog | Served with a sprinkle of nutmeg and a dash of bourbon for an adult twist. |
5. Park Staff and Training
The behind-the-scenes effort of transforming Dollywood for Christmas includes:
- Training: Staff are trained in customer service tailored to the holiday season, ensuring they’re knowledgeable about all the new features and events.
- Hiring Seasonal Employees: Additional staff are brought in to handle the influx of visitors, ensuring smooth operations and hospitality.
- Coordination: A detailed schedule is set up to manage the opening and closing of attractions, shows, and food services to avoid any disruptions.
Dollywood's effort to create a magical Christmas atmosphere is evident in the detailed planning and execution of these preparations. From the dazzling lights to the unique entertainment and seasonal cuisine, every element is designed to make guests feel the joy and warmth of the season. This comprehensive preparation ensures that visitors, young and old, can immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas, making memories to last a lifetime.
When does Dollywood open for its Christmas celebrations?
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Dollywood typically opens its Christmas festivities towards the end of November, just after Thanksgiving, and continues through the New Year.
What are the park hours during the Christmas season?
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The park extends its hours during the holiday season, with regular hours being from 10 AM to 9 PM, with some days possibly having special opening or closing times for events.
Are there any events that require additional tickets?
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While most Christmas activities are included with park admission, special events like character dining or exclusive backstage tours might require separate tickets.
Can you visit Dollywood just to see the Christmas lights?
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Yes, the park becomes a beautiful showcase of lights during Christmas. Even if you’re not interested in the rides, the lights themselves are a major attraction.
How cold does it get during Christmas at Dollywood?
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Temperatures can be chilly, ranging from the low 30s to the high 50s Fahrenheit, so dressing warmly is recommended. The park also provides indoor attractions to escape the cold.
