Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner and Show In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

By Darryl Payne

One of the most exciting dinner shows in the country is right in the middle of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. We all want good food and good entertainment when we are on vacation, and Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show surely delivers! You’ll be whisked gently back in time when you are greeted by beautiful southern belles at the front door.

This action-packed show for all ages actually begins 50 minutes before dinner is served, so be sure to come early. You won’t want to miss the Carriage Room Opening Act. These talented entertainers will be sure to get your toes tapping. There is no extra cost for this memorable experience, so go ahead and snack on peanuts or popcorn from the concession stand. Don’t forget a cold drink in a boot-shaped mug. A boot-shaped mug? Sure! It's a great souvenir cup for the kids!

Immediately after the performance of Wild Oats, the doors of the 35,000-square foot arena will open. Enter in for the Dixie Stampede show! The vastness of the arena is rather impressive, and for a show that features so many animals, their presence isn’t noticed, until they appear. All you can smell is the delicious food, which is served shortly after being seated.

The four-course dinner at Dolly's Dixie Stampede begins with a deliciously rich and creamy soup, which you can enjoy as you are surrounded by the dazzling effects of the show’s opening. It’s hard to know where to direct your attention: the food or the show! The dinner is hearty and delicious, with some of the best chicken I’ve tasted in the area. The meal also includes a hickory-smoked barbecue pork loin, buttered corn on the cob, seasoned potatoes, a country biscuit, and coffee, Pepsi or tea with free refills. Vegetarian meals are also available on request. Dinner is made complete by dessert. Make sure you save room!

Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show is definitely a lot of entertainment “bang for the buck,” so go ahead and “stampede” on in! Don’t forget to visit the gift shop on your way out and take home more than just a memory.