Dollywood's Harvest Festival 2025, presented by Humana, kicked off on September 12 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The park, owned by Dolly Parton, is now a sea of more than 12,000 pumpkins, including gargantuan gourds that tip the scales at nearly 1,000 pounds in the Colossal Pumpkin Patch sponsored by Food City. All of this runs through October 27, offering families a nonstop fall‑themed adventure that blends music, food, and illumination.
How the Festival Transforms Dollywood
The Great Smoky Mountains backdrop provides a natural canvas, but the park’s team has gone far beyond foliage. Over 700 live performances fill the air, ranging from southern gospel to bluegrass, all rolled into the regular admission price. New attractions this year include Candy Corn Country, a whimsical nod to the iconic treat, and the return of the massive 40‑foot pumpkin tree that anchors Great Pumpkin LumiNights.
Behind the glow, guided tours walk guests through thousands of intricately carved pumpkins that light up after dark. One standout is the butterfly‑themed pumpkin, a homage to Dolly Parton’s favorite symbol, with tiny LED lights fluttering inside.
Headline Acts and Musical Lineup
The musical schedule reads like a road‑trip through country and Americana. Below is a snapshot of the headliners:
- Triumphant Quartet – September 15‑19
- Keith Anderson – September 20‑21
- The Grascals – September 22‑24
- Lee Roy Parnell – September 28
- Sidewalk Prophets – September 29 – October 3
- Rhonda Vincent & The Rage – October 5‑7 & 13‑14
- Emily Ann Roberts – October 8‑12
- Dailey & Vincent – October 15‑19
All concerts are included with park entry, a value proposition that has drawn families from across the Southeast. "We wanted music to feel like the heartbeat of the harvest," said a Dollywood spokesperson during the opening ceremony.
Food, Crafts, and the Pumpkin‑Spiced Palette
The culinary side is equally ambitious. Seasonal menus showcase pumpkin‑spiced delights such as a smoked pork flatbread, creamy butternut squash ravioli, and the ever‑popular pumpkin whoopie pie. For those with a sweet tooth, a salted‑caramel apple elephant ear has become an Instagram staple.
Artisans dot the park, selling hand‑blown glass ornaments and autumn‑scented candles. Guests can buy a tasting pass at any festival booth, and season‑pass holders enjoy a discounted rate.
Stay & Play Packages and Resort Extensions
The celebration doesn’t stop at the park gates. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, along with the HeartSong Lodge, host their own fall‑themed programming—craft workshops, intimate acoustic sets, and exclusive dining experiences. Three Stay & Play bundles bundle park admission with resort lodging, complimentary TimeSaver passes, and a private trolley that shuttles guests between the resort and festival grounds.
Behind the Glow tours, running daily from September 12 through October 27, give visitors backstage access to LumiNights’ lighting design, a behind‑the‑scenes look that has sold out quickly each year.
Impact on the Local Community
Economically, the festival pumps an estimated $25 million into the Pigeon Forge area, according to a report from the Sevier County Chamber of Commerce. Hotels report near‑full occupancy, and local vendors see a 40 % sales boost compared to the same period last year.
Beyond dollars, the event reinforces Dollywood’s brand as a family‑centric destination that celebrates Appalachian culture. “It’s more than a theme park; it’s a cultural hub for the Smokies,” noted a regional tourism expert.
What’s Next for Dollywood’s Harvest Festival
Organizers hint at a possible expansion of Candy Corn Country into a full‑scale confectionery village for 2026, and rumors swirl about adding a pumpkin‑carving competition judged by celebrity chefs.
For now, the park continues to light up evenings with the iconic 40‑foot pumpkin tree, a symbol that has become synonymous with the festival’s magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I attend Great Pumpkin LumiNights after dark?
Guests with regular park admission gain access to LumiNights automatically. For an up‑close view, purchase a Behind the Glow guided tour at any festival booth; tours run hourly from 7 p.m. until closing.
Are the concerts truly included with admission?
Yes. All headline and supporting acts are part of the general admission fee. No extra ticket is required for any of the listed performances.
What dining options are available for guests with dietary restrictions?
Several locations, including the Harvest Kitchen and the Pumpkin Patch Café, label gluten‑free, vegetarian, and vegan dishes on their menus. The app also lets you filter options by dietary need before you arrive.
Will the festival affect regular Dollywood ride wait times?
Most rides operate on their standard schedule, but a few seasonal attractions have longer queues. The park recommends using the TimeSaver Pass, included with Stay & Play packages, to skip the main lines during peak hours.
How does the Harvest Festival support the local economy?
Beyond the direct $25 million boost, the festival creates seasonal jobs for over 1,200 residents, and local farms supply many of the pumpkins and produce featured in the park’s menus.