Calling all runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts! Dollywood is hosting its very first Run Dollywood Race Weekend, offering a unique opportunity to run through Dollywood Theme Park, one of Pigeon Forgeโs most beloved attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or looking for a fun family activity, this inaugural event features races for every fitness level with 5K, 10K, and half-marathon courses.
Race this fun-filled course past iconic landmarks, beautifully themed areas, and experience the park enhanced with live music, on-course entertainment, beautiful views of spring in the Smokies, and the excitement of Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival. Following the event, participants can spend the rest of the day enjoying the world-class attractions, entertainment, and fun at Dollywood Theme Park.
Race Weekend Events: What To Expect
Kids Fun Run (Ages 4-12) – 1 Mile
Get the little ones excited about fitness with this fun-filled 1-mile course through Dollywood. It’s the perfect introduction to racing in a safe, encouraging environment where every child receives a finisher medal.
5K Race
Perfect for beginners or those seeking a shorter challenge, the 5K winds through Dollywood Theme Park, offering runners a chance to experience the park like never before, surrounded by music, rides, and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.
10K Race
Step up the challenge with the 10K course that showcases even more of Dollywood’s beauty and extends into the surrounding Pigeon Forge community. This distance is ideal for intermediate runners looking to push themselves while enjoying scenic Smoky Mountain views.
Half Marathon – The Marquee Event
The crown jewel of the weekend! This 13.1-mile course begins and ends at Dollywood’s Splash Country and takes runners on a scenic journey through Dollywood Theme Park and the beautiful surrounding area. It’s a bucket-list race that combines the challenge of a half-marathon with the magic of Dollywood.
The Butterfly Challenge: Earn Your Wings
Think you can handle all three races? Complete the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon during the weekend to Earn Your Wings! Butterfly Challenge finishers receive an exclusive commemorative medal celebrating their strength, spirit, and unforgettable achievementโonly available to those who complete all three races.
What Makes This Race Special
Beyond the races themselves, participants can look forward to a full weekend of special perks and amenities:
- Earn exclusive inaugural race medals and event shirts
- Enjoy live music and festive on-course entertainment
- Race through a fun-filled course that winds its way through Dollywood Parks and Resorts and the surrounding community
- Pacers available to help you reach your goal
- Live music throughout Dollywood
- Post-race food, refreshments, and awards
- Chip-timed events
- Scenic routes through Dollywoodโs park rides and attractions
- Water stations and energetic volunteers along the course
- Finisher medals for all participants
Race Weekend Schedule
Friday, April 24
Bib Pick Up and Race Expo
- Time: 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- Location: Ballroom at Dollywoodโs HeartSong Lodge & Resort
- Details: Pick up your race bib, official event shirt, and participant packet. Browse vendors and local partners for race gear and Smoky Mountain merchandise. Note: There is no race-day bib pick-up, so plan to attend the expo.
Saturday, April 25
Kids Run, 5K & 10K
- 5K Start Time: 6:30 am
- 10K Start Time: 8:30 am
- Kids Run Start Time: 11:00 am
- Location: inside Dollywood Theme Park
- Details: All Saturday races take place inside Dollywood, giving runners an exclusive early-morning experience before the park opens to the public.
Pre-Race Meal
- Time: 5:00 pm (sold out) and 6:30 pm seating
- Location: inside Dollywood Theme Park
- Details: Fuel up for Sunday’s Half Marathon with a special pre-race meal. Purchase up to four meal tickets so friends and family can join you. Each ticket includes theme park admission starting at 4:00 pm for guests without a park ticket. Tickets available during RunSignUp registration.
Sunday, April 26
Half Marathon
- Time: 5:30 am
- Location: Dollywood’s Splash Country
- Details: The headline event of the weekend! This scenic 13.1-mile course includes an unforgettable run through Dollywood Theme Park.
Registration Information
Register for Dollywood Race Weekend through RunSignUp. Visit Dollywood’s official website for registration links, pricing details, and additional race information.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Dollywood history!
Whether you’re chasing a personal record or creating memories with your family, the inaugural Run Dollywood Race Weekend promises a family-friendly Pigeon Forge experience you’ll never forget.
