Dollywood is kicking off their 2026 season on March 13 with the new I Will Always Love You Music Festival! This festival celebrates the art of songwriting with vibrant sights and sounds throughout the theme park. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from dazzling art installations to savory flavors to high-energy performances! Here’s everything you can expect to experience at Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival this season.
1. Dates and Hours of Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival
Dollywood’s 2026 season officially starts on Friday, March 13, which is also the first day of the I Will Always Love You Music Festival! The festival runs from opening day through Sunday, April 12. Here are Dollywood hours during the I Will Always Love You Music Festival:
- March 13–15: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- March 16–April 2: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- April 3–12: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Closed April 5)
2. Dolly-Inspired Performances
You’ll love the larger-than-life performances that will grace the stages throughout Dollywood during the I Will Always Love You Music Festival! There are three Dolly-inspired shows that you don't want to miss, filling the mountain air with both new and familiar music. Join Dolly Parton's niece Heidi Parton, who makes a headlining appearance during the award-winning From the Heart: The Life & Music of Dolly Parton, a sing-along show you don't want to miss. The high-energy Moto Motion: Freestyle Showdown and the creative Artrageous are full of excitement, inspiration, and joy!
3. Dazzling Photo Opportunities
You can expect to see vibrant and sparkling art installations and photo opportunities throughout the theme park during Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival! Walk beneath Celebration Sky, a glittering pink display that resembles sequins floating in the air. The LOVE sign is a must-visit display for photos with your friends and family members. There are a number of other bright and colorful backdrops and art pieces where you can take the perfect spring photos so you will always remember your amazing time at Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival!
4. Flavors of the Festival
Let your taste buds join in on the fun by trying all sorts of tasty festival foods! There are both sweet and savory treats that are sure to make your mouth sing! Make sure to grab a I Will Always Love You Festival Tasting Pass, which lets you try up to five festival foods for one low price!
5. I Will Always Love You Festival Tour
If you’re looking for a closer look at Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival, sign up for an I Will Always Love You Festival Tour! This special tour gives guests the chance to ask questions and learn more about Dolly’s influence on the theme park, featuring a 1.5 hour walking tour that includes stops at Dolly-specific attractions such as Tennessee Mountain Home and the Dolly Parton Experience. This festival tour also show reservations, meet and greet opportunities with performers, a limited-edition festival beverage, and more! The tour is an extra cost not included in admission to Dollywood.
New at Dollywood in 2026
Now you know about all the great things you can expect to experience during Dollywood’s new I Will Always Love You Music Festival! If you’re planning on visiting the theme park this year, you’ll also want to know about the newest addition to Dollywood. Learn more about NightFlight Expedition, a groundbreaking hybrid coaster and whitewater raft ride that will make its debut at Dollywood this spring!
