More Details About the I Will Always Love You Celebration

• Wes Ramey

I’m pretty sure there are very few people who are unaware of one of Dolly’s most iconic songs, “I Will Always Love You.” What many people may not be aware of, however, is that this year will be 50 years since she wrote the well-known hit. “I Will Always Love You” tells a powerful story and demonstrates the impact a song can have on the world. To celebrate Dolly’s status as one of the most prolific songwriters of all time, Dollywood will host the I Will Always Love You Celebration March 11-April 8.

With the opening of both Big Bear Mountain and HeartSong Lodge & Resort, 2023 was already going to be a big season but throwing in this great event adds even more fun for guests to enjoy. This event opens our operating season, and there is one thing you should keep in mind—the I Will Always Love You Celebration is unique to the 2023 season. If you want to enjoy this one-time only event, make your plans now! 

There are a lot of great elements of this festival, but what will probably get the most attention are the different artists we’ve invited to come share their gifts and experiences of songwriting and storytelling. Check the schedule here.

Guests can enjoy a special lineup of performances each Saturday throughout the I Will Always Love You Celebration in DP’s Celebrity Theater. The Celebrity Concert Series includes Natalie Grant (March 11); Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder (March 18); Jo Dee Messina (March 25); Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers (April 1); and Lauren Alaina (April 8). All concerts are included with park admission.

Guests also have the opportunity to hear from the people behind some of music’s biggest songs during the Showstreet Songwriting Showcase. Songwriters include Dana Black, who wrote George Strait’s “Check Yes or No” and “Write this Down”; Billy Montana, who wrote Sara Evans’ “Suds in the Bucket”; Steve Dean, who wrote “Walk On” for Reba McEntire, and many more. Each showcase features multiple songwriters and will  take place multiple times each day.

Throughout Showstreet and Rivertown, dazzling décor will delight guests as they make their way through the themed areas. On Showstreet, a glittering display of pink sequins shimmers above guests to create a sparkling experience. See a rendering below! Other bedazzling Instagrammable moments and celebration-themed merchandise can be found to capture the day. Dollywood’s culinary team is creating deliciously decadent treats for guests to enjoy during this special celebration.

There’s no such thing as too much Dolly. And one thing’s for sure, it's going to be a once-in-a-lifetime Dollywood party to remember! I hope to see you here!