It was an eventful weekend in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, as the Dollywood theme park opened its gates to kick off the start of a new season. Season pass holders were given the first chance to visit the park on Friday (March 11).
Dolly Parton herself turned out to attend her namesake park’s opening celebration. She waved to guests during a parade through the park on opening day.
This is my favorite part every time I visit! Getting to see all your smiling faces just makes me so happy! #DollyComesHome pic.twitter.com/9gsFkoGSRL
— Dollywood Parks & Resorts (@Dollywood) March 11, 2022
However, all the fun festivities were put on hold the following day.
The folks at Dollywood were aware of some cold weather and snow moving into the region on Saturday (March 12). Being cautious, the park initially announced it would open on a delay that day.
But after seeing how much snow fell overnight, the park announced it would be closed on Saturday:
“Due to overnight snowfall and current temperatures, Dollywood will be closed today, March 12,” read a statement on the park’s official social media accounts. “A delayed park opening is anticipated on Sunday, March 13 because of temperature forecasts. Park officials will assess conditions today to determine final operating plans for Sunday.”
Due to overnight snowfall and current temperatures, Dollywood will be closed today, March 12. A delayed park opening is anticipated on Sunday, March 13 because of temperature forecasts. Park officials will assess conditions today to determine final operating plans for Sunday.
— Dollywood Parks & Resorts (@Dollywood) March 12, 2022
Dollywood also announced that sadly, Parton would not be at the park on Sunday (March 13).
“Because of prior scheduling commitments, Dolly is unable to be at the park on Sunday, however, she looks forward to visiting the park multiple times this season,” Dollywood said on social media.
Because of prior scheduling commitments, Dolly is unable to be at the park on Sunday, however, she looks forward to visiting the park multiple times this season. We are excited to open for the 2022 season once operating conditions allow.
— Dollywood Parks & Resorts (@Dollywood) March 12, 2022
Dollywood did reopen on Sunday, though its opening time was delayed until noon.
The theme park is still in its slow season and is only open a few days a week. Check the calendar on the official Dollywood website for all dates and times the park will be open this year.
Have you ever been to Dollywood before? If so, which ride is your favorite?
Head below to watch a news report about Dollywood’s opening day this year.