June 27, 2022
Editor's Note: This post was written by Camryn Eaton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts Public Relations Intern
It is summer in the Smokies. I know that when the weather warms up, I start looking forward to time well spent with family and friends - after all, isn't that what summer is about? I start thinking of water, red, white and blue, barbecue, fireworks, ice cream and music. If you share in those summer cravings, I happen to know a destination where you can find it all. Dollywood checks all the boxes for the "must-haves" of summer. And I'm going to let you in on all the summer happenings! 
To kick things off, Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration began June 18 and runs through Aug. 7. Think nostalgic displays - a water hose fountain sculpture, a kaleidoscope of pool noodles dangling high overhead and giant spinning tops that double as seating options. Tasty summer dishes, extended park hours and an elaborate fireworks and drone show each night. Need I say more? 
Roller coasters at a theme park just "scream" summer - literally and figuratively! Dollywood boasts nine different roller coasters that are suited for those looking for high thrills, milder family fun or something in-between. What makes a ride even more intense is experiencing it in the dark. Guests can have this unique opportunity when summer days turn into - Sweet Summer Nights! 
As the summer heat creeps in, Dollywood's Splash Country offers ample opportunity to cool off and enjoy a day spent playing in the water, and the park really is friendly for all ages. Splash Country is the Smokies' most-trusted water park, so you can feel great about bringing the entire family. 
In July, the park has offerings to celebrate freedom's favorite holiday with patriotic balloon art. You might even notice the Statue of Liberty roaming the park on stilts! Dollywood's street musicians and performers will sport hues of red, white and blue to get everyone in the spirit of America for the July 4 holiday. Nothing symbolizes freedom quite like a bald eagle, and at Dollywood, the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary serves as a reminder of the power and beauty of our national symbol. In fact, the park houses the largest assembly of non-releasable bald eagles in the world. Guests who desire to see a bald eagle up close have the opportunity to do so during the Wings of America show! 
Guests can experience a special treat with performances from the 129th U.S. Army Tennessee National Guard Concert Band at Dreamsong Theater, Back Porch Theater and DreamMore Resort & Spa happening in early July. Additional acts have been booked in celebration of our nation's birthday. Make sure to check out the Dollywood website for performance schedules! If you haven't picked up on it yet, there's something for everyone at Dollywood, and you wouldn't want to miss out on the opportunities nestled right here in the Smokies this summer. I encourage you to take in all of the simplicity and sweetness that a trip to the park offers. Make this a summer you will remember forever! 
Festivals All Blogs
Festivals All Blogs
