Enjoy a Country Christmas at Dollywood

By Bennie McCann

Everyone enjoys the sights and sounds of the holidays. This is the time when each rooftop is outlined in lights and ornately decorated trees are found everywhere. Christmas wreaths garnish doors and the whole world seems to smell like evergreen and cinnamon. Many families, especially those with young children, take trips to theme parks at this time of year. However, that mouse in Orlando is not your only option. Let Dollywood in Pigeon Forge show you why the Smoky Mountains should be your choice for country Christmas entertainment the whole family will enjoy.

Christmas is such a special time that Dollywood offers its Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival with over a dozen shows and events to delight children of all ages. Beginning in early November and lasting until the end of December, you’ll find magnificent holiday decorations, yummy food, fabulous shows and exciting rides. You’ll also experience Jack Frost nipping at your nose, warm cider, a snow-covered winter wonderland and everything to make your own authentic Courier and Ives Christmas. You won’t find that anywhere in Florida!

According to the Dollywood.com website, here are a few shows you can attend.

Breakfast With Santa

Feel the excitement in the air as your children eagerly await a chance to share with Santa what they’ll be looking for under the tree Christmas morning. Afterwards, you can fill your stomachs with a hearty country breakfast from Aunt Granny’s kitchen.

Dollywood’s Babes in Toyland

Toys that come to life and giant marching toy soldiers make this incredible adventure described as “Dollywood’s most elaborate stage show ever!” Children of all ages will enjoy the exciting music and amazing performances.

O’ Holy Night

Find what’s holy in your heart when you attend a unique version of the Christmas Story. As a young girl looks for an angel and three shepherds follow a star they all realize what Christmas is truly about. Tender and touching, this show helps you remember the reason for the season.

Twas the Night Before Christmas

Who is that stranger? Delightful and fun, watch a family discover a Christmas miracle at the hands of a stranger who seems vaguely familiar. With music and magic, you’ll find hope for your own Christmas miracle!

Christmas in the Smokies

This traditional Christmas musical will warm your hearts and put a smile on your face as you listen to your favorite holiday songs. And by all means… sing along!

As if this wasn't enough to get you in the Christmas spirit, try visiting the many shops and craft stores Dollywood has to offer. Specialty items, handmade arts and crafts, and more are on display from craftsman who learned their skills generations ago. Unique gifts for each person on your list are just waiting to be bought.

Stroll along the streets and hear carolers dressed in period costumes. But keep an eye out in case you run into ole Ebenezer himself!

In addition to the shows and shops, Dollywood offers two spectacular evening events. When the sun starts to set, the area begins to glimmer with the Parade of Lights. Christmas floats covered with festive lights and seasonal characters make their way along bringing cheer to everyone that attends. The Carol of the Trees is also a must-see! Thousands of lights and a multitude of fireworks join with holiday music that turns the Rivertown Lake into one enormous Christmas celebration.

It’s hard to imagine any place more exciting during the holidays than Dollywood. For a holiday getaway that will bring joy to each member of your family, plan your Christmas trip to Dollywood soon.