I Will Always Love You Music Festival Dollywood 2026: Dates, Tickets, & Guide

I Will Always Love You Music Festival Dollywood is back to brighten your spring with music, color, and heartfelt Southern charm. This 2026 season, expect fresh shows, dazzling art displays, and the return of must-see musical tributes to Dolly. 

From the larger than life installation of the word LOVE to new flavors and performances, this cross-genre celebration of song is uniquely Smoky Mountains. Read on for a full guide to dates, tickets, what to expect, and tips to make the most of your visit during Dollywood’s I Will Always Love You Music Festival.

I Will Always Love You Music Festival Dates & Schedule

The 2026 I Will Always Love You Music Festival Dollywood runs from March 13 to April 12, 2026. Dollywood is typically open daily during this stretch, though exact hours vary—most days operate from around 10 AM to 7 PM while others open from 9 AM up to 11 PM. 

There are no holiday closures during this period. Weekday mornings offer the lightest crowds, while Saturdays near Easter tend to be busiest. The festival runs rain or shine, though outdoor rides may pause in severe weather.

Tickets

Ticket Types

• General admission: Includes entry to Dollywood and all I Will Always Love You Music Festival celebrates the art of songwriting filling dollywood mountain nestled streets entertainment.
• Timed entry: Tickets are date-specific but not timed; guests can enter any time during operating hours on their ticket date.
• VIP / Fast Pass: TimeSaver passes allow line-skipping at select attractions; not required for shows but helpful for maximizing ride time.
• Kids/Seniors/Military: Child discounts, military rates, and senior pricing for guests 62+ are available; free preschool passes with advance registration.

Where to Buy I Will Always Love You Music Festival Tickets

Book through Tripster to easily compare ticket types with instant ticket confirmation, no promo code needed, no surprise fees, and a mobile-friendly, stress-free booking process. The festival is included with your regular Dollywood admission—no separate ticket needed!

Ticket Tips

Buy tickets in advance for weekends and spring break periods. Arrive close to opening for best access to shows and attractions. Know that food and merchandise are paid add-ons not included with admission.

Getting to Dollywood

Directions & Address

• Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
• Arrival Tips: Follow signs from I‑40 Exit 407 through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge to Veterans Boulevard—the main road into Dollywood’s parking complex.

Parking & Pricing

• General Parking: Standard lots are $25–$30 per vehicle; preferred parking is closer to the entrance for an additional fee.
• Best Lot: Preferred parking offers the shortest walk; otherwise, use standard lots with tram access.
• Accessibility: Designated accessible parking near entrance and tram-served lots.
• Shuttles: Free trams run from standard lots to the front entrance throughout the day.

Rideshare & Public Transit

• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft drop off at the main entrance area.
• Public Transit: Pigeon Forge Trolley offers a Dollywood route with stops along the Parkway.

Pro Tip: Avoid Veterans Blvd around 10 AM—arrive before 9:30 AM or after 11 to skip traffic.

What to Expect at I Will Always Love You Music Festival 2026

The Main Experience

Dollywood I Will Always Love You Music Festival is a walk-through, open-air music festival, featuring shows, art displays, and food vendors scattered across the park. Expect to spend your time moving between performances, snapping photos, and enjoying festival flavors.

2026 Highlights

• Dynamic cross genre blend of music from local and regional performers
• Dazzling productions including a headlining act from Heidi Parton
• The award winning From The Heart The Life & Music of Dolly Parton musical revue
• A Dolly Parton sing a long experience for fans of all ages
• Visual installations like Celebration Sky art piece and larger than life installation of the word LOVE
• Seasonal foods and exclusive Dolly-themed merchandise

Crowds & Atmosphere

Crowds are moderate on weekdays and grow busy on spring weekends. The atmosphere is lively and musical, with lots of spontaneous performances and spring décor.

Pro Tip: Head to the Back Porch Theater area for shorter snack lines and a cozy viewing zone.

Who is I Will Always Love You Music Festival Best For?

• Families: Colorful shows and kid-friendly décor appeal to all ages.
• Couples: Romantic photo ops under Celebration Sky and evening singalongs make great date nights.
• Groups: Great for Dolly fans and friend meetups—plenty of shows, shopping, and eats to share.

How Long to Spend at I Will Always Love You Music Festival

• Typical Visit: 4–6 hours
• Express Route: Prioritize 2 shows, the LOVE sign photo op, and a tasting pass.
• Full Experience: Spend the day watching all four productions and enjoying full Dollywood access.

Pro Tip: Go early, then return to Celebration Sky at golden hour for the best lighting.ways Love You Festival has something extraordinary in store for everyone.

Food & Drinks

Onsite Dining Options

• Vendors: Options include BBQ, fried chicken, funnel cakes, cinnamon bread, pizza, and Southern-style vegetables.
• Alcohol Policy: Dollywood does not serve alcohol in the park; nearby resorts do.

Dietary & Nearby Dining

• Dietary Restrictions: Vegetarian and allergy-friendly items are available. 
• Nearby Restaurants: Outside the park, visit Song & Hearth at DreamMore Resort or Pancake Pantry nearby.

Pro Tip: Grab cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill before noon—it sells out on busy days!

Frequently Asked Questions

Know Before You Go

• Bag Policy: Standard bags allowed; no clear bag requirement.
• Re-entry: Yes, with ticket and hand stamp.
• Pets: Only ADA service animals allowed.
• Payment: Cards, cash, Apple Pay, and tap-to-pay accepted.

Accessibility & Convenience

• Strollers: Available for rent; terrain is paved but hilly.
• Wheelchair Access: Full ADA access; rentals available.
• Sensory Notes: Expect music, ride noise, and bright visuals; quiet spots marked near guest services.

Weather & What to Wear

• Rain Policy: Open rain or shine; some rides may pause in storms.
• Comfort: Wear comfy shoes and bring a poncho or light jacket.

Final Take: Is the I Will Always Love You Music Festival Worth It?

Absolutely. This festival captures the heart of spring in the smoky mountains, blending live music, visual beauty, and family-friendly fun into a memorable escape.

Top Reasons to Go:

• The Shows: Shake off the winter blues and hear spring shine as you enjoy an unmatched lineup of Dolly-inspired productions and live performers.
• The Art: Capture the perfect spring selfie with Celebration Sky and the LOVE sign.
• The Music: Feel the soul of the season in a dynamic cross genre blend of music unlike any other.

The Golden Rule: Arrive before 10 AM to enjoy shorter lines for rides, seats at the best shows, and less crowded walkways.

Spring to life at Dollywood!: Book your Dollywood tickets early through Tripster for the best prices. Don’t forget to explore our vacation packages bundling attractions, shows, and hotels together for your full Smoky Mountain getaway!