Spring at Dollywood Theme Park means blooming flowers, exciting attractions, and new treats. The spring season at Dollywood starts in March and lasts through the beginning of June. With amazing temperatures and colorful scenery, It’s the perfect time to plan a visit. So pack your bags, grab your family and friends, and head to Dollywood for an unforgettable spring trip.
Why is spring a Perfect Time to visit Dollywood?
If you’re planning a visit to Dollywood, the spring season is an excellent time to do so. The weather is great – perfect to ride all the coasters like Big Bear Mountain or Lightning Rod which is finally re opening! and the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season.
Dollywood has 2 festivals during the spring season, the I Will Always Love You Music Festival and the Flower & Food Festival. These events have live music, dance performances, and delicious seasonal food.
When Does the spring season start and end Dollywood?
Springtime at Dollywood begins March 9th, 2024 all the way to June 9th, 2024
| Event | Date | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Passholder Preview | March 8th, 2024 | Exclusive Access 10am – 8pm |
| Public Opening | March 9th, 2024 | Public Access 10am – 8pm |
| End of Spring season | June 9th, 2024 | 10am – 8pm |
When Is The Best Time To Visit in the Spring Season?
Spring at Dollywood features two major events: the “I Will Always Love You” music festival, and the Flower and Food Festival. The best time to visit Dollywood in the spring is during the weekdays, especially in the morning. The park is less crowded during these times, and you can enjoy the rides and attractions without long lines.
If you can’t visit on a weekday, try to go on a Sunday as it is usually less crowded than Saturdays, or consider buying the TimeSaver pass. Dollywood is closed for two months before the “I Will Always Love You” festival, so the park is usually crowded during this festival. The Flower and Food Festival is a bit more manageable since it has a longer timeframe.
How is The Weather During the Spring Months at Dollywood?
The weather during this time of year is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s. While there can be occasional colder snaps, overall, the weather is perfect for enjoying the park’s outdoor attractions.
One thing to keep in mind is that spring is also the rainy season in East Tennessee. You can expect occasional showers, so it’s a good idea to pack an umbrella or rain jacket just in case.
| Spring Weather at Dollywood | March – April |
|---|---|
| Average High | 70°F (15.5°C) |
| Average Low | 40°F (4.4°C) |
What Should You Pack for Your Spring Dollywood Trip?
Spring weather in the Smoky Mountains can be unpredictable. With cool mornings giving way to warmer afternoons and the occasional shower passing through, it’s better to be ready for anything.
Layered Clothing:
Mornings and evenings might be cold, while afternoons tend to warm up.
Layers are your best friend!. Bring sweaters that you can easily take off as the day warms up.
Portable Power Bank:
You will be taking lots of pictures and videos. The last thing you want is for your device to run out of battery. Bringing a portable power bank lets you recharge your phone or camera at any time.
Comfortable Footwear:
Leave your fancy shoes for a night out!. Comfortable shoes are a must as you will be walking a lot.
Rain Gear: April showers are not uncommon in the Smokies, so be sure to pack an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket to stay dry if rain clouds roll in.
Unique Spring Flavors at Dollywood
Here are just a few of the delicious flavors you might find at Dollywood’s 2024 Spring season;
- King’s Hawaiian BBQ Pork Slider:
A mouthwatering combination of braised pork, cucumber kimchi, and chili glaze in a King’s Hawaiian bun. - Korean Beef Bulgogi Nachos:
Crispy nacho chips topped with tender beef bulgogi, marinated to perfection. - Loaded Potato Tornado:
Each crispy spiral is topped with chopped bacon, creamy queso sauce, and fresh scallions. - Pistachio Ice Cream Sandwich:
Creamy pistachio ice cream sandwiched between sweet waffles and dipped in decadent chocolate .
If you are like me and want to try everything, you should get the Flower & Food festival tasting pass, so you can try five different dishes!.
What Unique Things Can You Find At Dollywood During The Spring?
I Will Always Love You Music Festival
Dollywood welcomes spring with the “I Will Always Love You Music Festival,” running from March 9 to April 14, 2024. Guests can enjoy the fun atmosphere filled with live performances and interactive and engaging activities.
The festival has shows featuring Dolly Parton’s iconic hits, including a special sing-along session and a reimagined version of the beloved Paradise Road. Visitors can also take great pictures with the “Celebration Sky,” a shimmering display of pink sequins, and the iconic LOVE sign.
Three NEW Dolly-Inspired Shows Debut
As part of the “I Will Always Love You Music Festival,” Dollywood premieres three shows celebrating the timeless music of Dolly Parton. These shows have live musicians and artists. They include a lively sing-along session featuring Dolly’s greatest hits, a revamped rendition of the beloved Paradise Road, and a tribute to the classic melodies of the “Trio” album.
Sparkling Art and Installations
Dollywood dazzles guests with stunning art installations as part of the “I Will Always Love You Music Festival.” The iconic LOVE sign and the “Celebration Sky” with its vibrant pink sequins are guest favorites.
These larger-than-life installations are perfect photo opportunities!
Flower & Food Festival
From April 19 to June 9, 2024, Dollywood turns into a floral paradise with the Flower & Food Festival. This fun festival celebrates the beauty of spring with breathtaking displays and sculptures made with over one million vibrant blooms. Guests can immerse themselves in the sights, scents, and fresh flavors of the season.
Umbrella Sky
Experience the magic of springtime as sunlight filters through colorful umbrellas hanging in the sky!. The Umbrella Sky is a signature feature of Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival, that creates a beautiful display of colors, including yellow, purple, pink, green, and blue. Don’t forget to take a picture under the umbrella sky!
What Is There To Do In The Surrounding Area During The Spring?
Skyland Ranch – Boots & Blooms
(Mar 8th – May 11th, 2024)
Experience a Celebration of Color as you walk through this Mountain Top Ranch.
Wildflowers welcome you to Boots & Blooms while you ride the Chairlift to the top of SkyLand Ranch. Meet Miniature Animals, try new Seasonal Foods, and tune into Daily Live Music and Western Cowboy Shows while visiting their Springtime Festival.
Anakeesta – Blooms & Tunes
(Apr 2nd- June 20th, 2024)
Spring comes alive at Anakeesta with Blooms and Tunes, a brand new celebration.
Families can see larger-than-life art installations all over Anakeesta, including a 20-foot blooming daisy and giant paint palette complete with 10’ tall paint brushes. Anakeesta will have live music four days a week by local bands at Black Bear Village every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoon.
At night you will find twinkling and colorful light displays throughout Vista Gardens.
The Treetop Skywalk turns into Firefly Forest with lights projected above and below the canopy giving the sensation of being surrounded by thousands of fireflies!
Leconte Center – Spring Rod Run
(Apr 18-20, 2024)
Every spring, Pigeon Forge hosts an automotive event
that brings car enthusiasts from all over the nation.
The town turns into a haven for classic car lovers, showcasing custom classics.
From vintage Ford Model A hot rods to cutting-edge Bugatti Veyron V16s.
Swap meets and vendor gatherings add to the excitement, offering everything from aftermarket parts to t-shirts.
Annual Cookie Festival
(Sat, Apr 27, 2024)
Come join the fun at the Sweetest Event in the Smokies – Classic Cookie’s Annual Cookie Festival! Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this downtown Sevierville event is a must for families. Indulge in all things cookies while supporting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Sevier County with every purchase. What makes it extra special? Free entry for everyone!
Experience a cookie recipe baking showdown, classic car cruise-in, and a delightful birthday cake art gallery. From cookie-themed treats to music and photo ops.
Enjoy and make beautiful memories and new traditions together, have fun!
Did you visit during the Spring? What are some of your favorite activities?
Share your experiences with us in the comments!
