April 25–26, 2026

Registration Now Open for the Inaugural Run Dollywood Race Weekend!

Lace up your running shoes and join us for the very first Run Dollywood Race Weekend! From a fun-filled kids' run to exciting 5K, 10K, and half marathon courses through Dollywood Theme Park, there's a race for every runner.

Register Now
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Why Run Dollywood?

Participants can enjoy Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival, as well as the beauty of spring in the Smokies, as they race through the fun-filled course that winds its way through the park and the surrounding area. A full calendar of races is planned for the inaugural event weekend, including the marquee half-marathon slated for Sunday morning. Companion races—a 1-mile kids fun run(ages 4-12), a 5k, a 10k —are scheduled for Saturday morning. 

  • Make your reservation now at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort or Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa
  • Earn exclusive inaugural race medals and event shirts
  • Enjoy live music and festive on-course entertainment
  • Race through a fun-filled course that winds its way through Dollywood Parks and Resorts and the surrounding community

Book Your Stay

Explore The Events

Family in HeartSong lobby Family in HeartSong lobby

Friday, April 24

Bib Pick Up and Expo

The Race Expo will be held in the ballroom at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

  • Hours: 12:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
  • Pick up your race bib, shirt, and participant packet
  • Explore vendors, merchandise, and local partners
  • Bib pick-up and Expo will be held Friday, April 24, from 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at HeartSong Lodge & Resort. There is no race-day bib pick-up.

Saturday, April 25

Kids Run, 5K & 10K

Kids Run: Start time - 11:00 a.m.
5K: Start time - 6:30 a.m.
10K: Start time - 8:30 a.m.

Take on either our 5K or 10K morning races. Both courses weave through Dollywood Theme Park, giving runners a chance to experience the park like never before - surrounded by music, rides, and one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.

  • Chip-timed events
  • Scenic routes through Dollywood’s park rides and attractions
  • Water stations and energetic volunteers along the course
  • Finisher medals for all participants

Kids Run Kids Run
Runners feet Runners feet

Sunday, April 26

Half Marathon

Half Marathon: Start time - 6:30 a.m.

The headline event of the weekend! Our half marathon begins and ends at Dollywood's Splash Country and takes runners on a scenic journey that includes a one-of-a-kind run through Dollywood Theme Park.

Experience Dollywood like never before - From the moment you cross the starting line, you’ll be surrounded by the excitement, music, and atmosphere that only Dollywood can provide. Race past iconic landmarks, beautifully themed areas, and experience the park enhanced with music, décor, and the spirit of celebration. From the natural beauty of Wildwood Grove to the handcrafted details of Craftsman’s Valley and the excitement of Timber Canyon, every mile delivers a new backdrop and a fresh sense of accomplishment that only Dollywood can provide.

  • Pacers available to help you reach your goal
  • Live music throughout Dollywood
  • Post-race food, refreshments, and awards

The Butterfly Challenge: Earn Your Wings

Take your Run Dollywood experience to the next level with The Butterfly Challenge! Complete the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon during race weekend to Earn Your Wings and receive an exclusive commemorative Butterfly Challenge medal, designed to celebrate your strength, spirit, and unforgettable Dollywood achievement — only available to Challenge finishers!

Dollywood butterfly Dollywood butterfly
Family eating together Family eating together

Pre-Race Meal – Saturday, April 25 at 5:00 PM inside Dollywood Theme Park

Get ready for race day by fueling up for the marquee Half Marathon with a special Pre-Race Meal inside Dollywood Theme Park!

You can purchase up to four meal tickets so your friends and family can join you for this fun pre-race experience. Tickets may be purchased during RunSignUp registration. Each meal ticket includes theme park admission starting at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday for guests without a park ticket.

Space is limited—be sure to purchase your pre-race meal tickets early before they sell out!

Make Run Dollywood a True Getaway

Book Your Stay

Turn race weekend into a full Dollywood experience with a stay at one of our award-winning resorts - Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa or the brand-new Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. Both are located just minutes from the theme park and Splash Country, giving you the ultimate convenience for race weekend.

Runner Perks for Staying On-Property:

  • Convenient access to packet pickup and race start lines
  • Complimentary resort shuttle to Dollywood and Splash Country
  • Early park access on select days
  • Relaxing spaces to celebrate your accomplishment with family and friends

Rooms will fill quickly for this special weekend!

Book Now
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