When the first chill of winter touches the air, and the holiday season is upon us, there’s no better place to revel in the Christmas spirit than Dollywood. But the question that often comes to mind is, are Dollywood rides open in December? The short answer? Yes! As long as the temperature is over 40 degrees, and excepting water rides. However, there’s a lot more to know about this magical theme park during the winter months and more details on the rides. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Embrace the Magic of Dollywood in Winter
The magic of Dollywood truly shines in December. The park is adorned with millions of twinkling holiday lights, transforming it into a winter wonderland. The festive atmosphere, combined with thrilling rides and engaging entertainment, make Dollywood a must-visit destination during the Christmas season.
Operating Hours: When to Visit?
Before planning your visit, bear in mind that Dollywood theme park’s operating hours are slightly limited during the winter season. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas festival for the 2023 holiday season runs from November 4, 2023 to January 6, 2024. For 2023, the park is open 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in November and December. Please keep in mind that the theme park is closed on Mondays in November. I know of more than one person than planned to go on a Tuesday only to discover the park was closed. (Names omitted to protect the innocent.)
Dollywood is also closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The park is also quite busy during the holiday season. A quick look at the operating calendar (or on the Dollywood app) will give you any updated hours and closures. Dollywood’s Splash Country – the water park – is closed until 2024 as it is way too cold.
Riding High: Are Rides Open in December?
Yes, most of the rides are operational during December, offering guests a chance to experience Dollywood’s world-class attractions amidst the holiday bustle. However, the temperature (specifically cold weather) plays a crucial role in ride accessibility. For safety reasons, some rides cease operation when the temperature drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Nonetheless, there’s no need to worry. East Tennessee’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience warm days even in December!
This often means that early in the day, or late in the day, your favorite ride may not be able to operate due to the temperature, so don’t wait until sundown for all your rides. On the other hand, midday rides, especially on roller coasters, may be the best time to get a ride in on colder days. If you get a chance to ride Wild Eagle at night the Christmas lights are just beautiful. The wooden roller coasters are visually perfect for celebrating Christmas. Rain, sleet and snow may also limit ride operations.
A ride on the Dollywood Express is a great way to see the sights and warm yourself on a colder December day.
A list of some popular rides and the temperatures at which they close are as follows (full list here):
| Ride & Attraction | Temperature |
| Amazing Flying Elephants | 32 degrees |
| Barnstormer | 32 degrees |
| Dragonflier | 36 degrees |
| FireChaser Express* | 39 degrees |
| Mystery Mine* | 34 degrees |
| Big Bear Mountain | 36 degrees |
| Wild Eagle | 34 degrees |
*These rides will not open until the temperature reaches 40 degrees. And Lightning Rod is closed the rest of the season.
Experience the Holiday Shows
Dollywood is famous for its live entertainment, and the holiday season is no exception. The park hosts several Christmas-themed shows during the Smoky Mountain Christmas event, including a must-see performance, “Christmas in the Smokies”. These shows offer a delightful blend of music, dance, and storytelling that perfectly capture the holiday spirit. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” is another show not to miss. Even if you are not a “show person”, you will enjoy the shows (and maybe warm a little bit).
While technically not a show, you can’t miss a visit with Santa Claus. Kids, young and old, always enjoy getting the “all clear” that you are on the nice list. Or a chance to plead your case with the Big Guy if you somehow landed on the naughty list.
Savor the Season with Delicious Holiday Treats
The holiday season at Dollywood is also a feast for your taste buds. The park offers a food festival of an all-new menu of holiday treats during Smoky Mountain Christmas. You can savor festival foods like Pork Belly Skillet, Chicken Pot Pie Bread Cone, and Gingerbread Funnel Cake, all washed down with a refreshing Holiday Limeade. Don’t forget to get your Christmas Tasting Pass to enjoy these culinary delights! And, of course, their famous cinnamon bread is available year round but tastes extra festive this time of year. Aunt Granny’s restaurant is always a favorite too with plenty of holiday cheer with all of your holiday favorites.
Light Up Your Night with Dollywood’s Fireworks
The Christmas celebration at Dollywood is not just about rides and food. As the day ends, the park lights up with a spectacular fireworks show. Known as the “Merry & Bright, Holiday Light! Fireworks Show”, this spectacle is a sight to behold. The show runs on Friday and Saturday nights throughout the Christmas season. This makes for such a festive time of year. And the tall Christmas tree that changes colors is always a guest-favorite attraction.
Stay a While: Book Fast!
If you plan on spending more than a day at Dollywood during the Christmas season, it’s advisable to book your stay as early as possible. Dollywood’s Dreammore Resort and the new Heartsong Lodge fill up fast. Several perks make it worth a visit to these hotels as you receive a dedicated trolley) that’s nice and warm to and from Dollywood park gate bypassing the theme park parking lot. You also receive a Timesaver Pass that let’s you ride your favorite participating ride faster. And the Christmas trees and decorations make a stay a great time. The accommodation options around the park fill up fast during this festive period. So, make sure to plan ahead!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Dollywood during the Christmas season:
Q: What is available at Dollywood in December?
A: The entire park is open during the Smoky Mountain Christmas event, which starts in early November and continues until just after New Year’s Day. All attractions are open as long as the temperature remains above 40 degrees. The decorations and lights are a great time to ride all your favorites. There are also special holiday food items only available during the holiday season. Lots of special shows and events. And the lights. Over 6 million lights adorn the park for the holiday season.
Q: Is Dollywood crowded during Christmas?
A: Yes, Dollywood does see a rise in visitors during Christmas, particularly on weekends and when school is out. To avoid the crowd, it’s recommended to visit during weekdays. It’s also helpful to arrive close to opening. Many people like to come at night to see all the lights so come early and do your rides and shows then. Even busy, you’re sure to have a great holiday time.
Q: How long do the Christmas lights stay up at Dollywood?
A: The Christmas lights at Dollywood are installed from early November until the park closes in early January. It’s a sight to see. If you like Christmas lights, you are going to love what Dolly Parton has done. She does Christmas lights right.
Tips for Your Dollywood Winter Visit
Here are some useful tips to make your winter visit to Dollywood even more enjoyable:
Dress in Layers: The weather in Tennessee can be unpredictable. We can literally have all four seasons in one day. You can be warm at noon and needing a full parka in the evening. Dressing in layers allows you to add or remove clothing as needed. Hats and ear muffs are a good way to stay warm. I actually have a down vest for when it’s early or late and temperatures drop. Layers will be your friend.
Carry a Bag: It’s a good idea to carry a small bag to store your belongings and any clothing items you might remove during the day. We always pack a few disposable handwarmers to keep in our pockets for extra warmth when it’s cold. You can also rent lockers in the park too.
Plan Your Day: To make the most out of your visit, plan your day beforehand. Decide which rides and shows you want to visit and in what order. Try to plan shows after every so many rides so you can warm up or cool down depending on the weather. With shows, the train and restaurants, you will have plenty to add to the mix so you don’t get too cold and make the most of your day. Be sure and download the Dollywood app and make sure you know how to see wait times on the Dollywood app.
Opt for Preferred Parking: To save time and avoid long lines, consider paying for preferred parking. This allows you to skip the tram lines and walk directly into the park. You can also ride the trolley from Patriot Park and be dropped at the front gate for a nominal charge and avoid parking altogether.
Wrapping Up Your Winter Visit at Dollywood
And there you have it. Visiting Dollywood in December offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, festive shows, delicious food, and a magical holiday atmosphere. So, are Dollywood rides open in December? Absolutely! As long as it is over 40 degrees Farenheit. Just remember to check the weather, dress appropriately, and plan your day to make the most out of your visit.
Remember, the Dollywood experience is more than just rides. Okay, so maybe it’s a little about the rides. It’s also about making lasting memories with your loved ones, basking in the joyous holiday spirit, and starting new traditions. So, pack your bags, bring your holiday cheer, and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure at Dollywood!
If you are looking for other December and Christmas activities in and around the Smoky mountains, be sure to include a few of these in your holiday activities:
Enjoy!
