Summertime is a family favorite at Dollywood!

• Kristin Coldwell

One of my absolute favorite things about Dollywood is the way the whole park is transformed with each season, and summer is no exception to this. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration runs through August 6, and during this celebration you can expect the park to be full of family fun activities, entertainment and places to cool off during the hot summer days! There is so much to do and see, but here’s a little peek into what our family of five has enjoyed during our summers at Dollywood.

Shows that entertain all ages!

One of the most popular shows for the summer season is the Gazillion Bubble Show. This show is a favorite for all ages and sure to entertain anyone in your crew. Our favorite street show is Liquid Beats; this landscaping group makes music with various objects and sounds amazing while they entertain you. We also enjoy the lively energy of the Hydro Jive Junction crew, as they sing and dance amidst a fire hydrant sprinkling everyone with water. There are many other forms of entertainment in the park during summertime, so be sure to download the Dollywood app during your visit to stay in the know about all the happenings. We always suggest to our friends that one day in Dollywood is usually never enough, so book multiple day tickets. That way you can experience it all.

Games around the park.

Sometimes kids (and adults!) need a break from all the adrenaline and fun that all the shows and rides provide. During the summertime at Dollywood, you will notice family games throughout the park, such as cornhole, ring toss and even some yellow loungers where folks can relax. This summer, Dollywood even brought us back to our childhood by having some parachute play! All these extras make for some fun downtime for the family.

Water fun around each corner.

Summer is hot, but Dollywood has you covered to keep you cool. Not only do they have water rides, but around the park you will be pleasantly surprised with misting fans, splash pads and a garden hose fountain. Only in the summertime will you find unique play experiences such as the Foam Zone - a super sudsy way to cool off. And don’t forget that Dollywood offers complimentary water at any restaurant throughout the park.

Summery food - including visiting food trucks.

If you are a foodie like me, you want to know about the food first. Summer at Dollywood does not disappoint for food options. As always, the Dollywood culinary staff wows us with their special summer menu, including options like mountain berry lemonade, the loaded potato tornado and a s'mores funnel cake. My family always loves to see what food trucks they bring to visit Dollywood throughout the summer. Whichever food options you choose, these summer treats are sure to please you all!

Drones and Fireworks! 

What better way to end a fun summer day than to relax with the family while watching a drone and fireworks show? This show, full of hundreds of drones, shares a unique Dollywood story.

As if all these activities and fun aren’t enough, Dollywood also has a new rollercoaster this summer that is going to please the WHOLE family. It happens to be a favorite for all five of us!  And don’t forget if you are looking for some more water fun, you can add Dollywood’s Splash Country to your ticket for another full day of fun in the hot summer sun. I hope your summer bucket list includes a trip to Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration. Our family has made many summer memories that will last forever.