Each spring, as the Smokies start to green up again, Dollywood turns the whole park into a love letter to songwriting. The I Will Always Love You Festival runs March 11 through April 11, filling Dollywood with a spring music festival built around the stories behind the songs. Visitors can enjoy Dolly-inspired shows, photo spots throughout the park, larger-than-life performances, interactive installations, and more.
Heidi Parton Sings the Story
Some of the best festival moments come from Dolly’s own songbook. Heidi Parton takes the stage as a headliner, the crowd joins in on sing-alongs to familiar favorites, and From The Heart: The Life & Music of Dolly Parton walks through Dolly’s life one song at a time. New to the lineup this year, Moto Motion: Freestyle Showdown and Artrageous bring a different kind of energy to the park.
Celebration Sky and the LOVE Sign
Seasonal art pops up throughout the park during the festival. Celebration Sky spreads a colorful canopy overhead, and the LOVE installation returns as one of the festival’s most familiar photo stops. Plan a few extra minutes to get a spring picture at both spots, especially if someone in the group wants a photo-worthy memory.
Festival Food and the Tasting Pass
Limited-time dishes and seasonal treats are available across the park, and a Tasting Pass lets guests sample several sweet and savory items in one visit, so it’s easy to try a little of everything between shows. Dollywood will announce the 2027 Tasting Pass closer to the festival.
