Dolly Parton’s legacy will take centre stage at the upcoming Harvest Festival at Dollywood, a celebration that promises a rich tapestry of music and festive activities running from 14 September to 31 October. This annual event, held in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, will feature an impressive lineup of over 700 live performances inspired by Parton’s remarkable career as a singer, songwriter, and entertainer.
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In a touching tribute, Dollywood’s president, Eugene Naughton, shared that the forthcoming 2026 Harvest Festival will hold special significance as it will be the first held since the passing of Parton on 25 August at the age of 80. “Every season in the Smokies is beautiful, but autumn is especially spectacular with the kaleidoscope of colours provided by Mother Nature,” Naughton remarked. He went on to quote Parton’s fond description of the festival as a “page out of God’s colouring book,” highlighting the vibrant atmosphere that awaits visitors.
This year’s festival promises to be a much-anticipated event, with performances spanning a variety of genres including country, gospel, bluegrass, and Americana. Renowned artists will grace the park’s numerous indoor and outdoor stages, culminating in an entertaining experience for all attendees. Among the featured acts are reigning American Idol Hannah Harper, season 23 runner-up John Foster, renowned The Voice alumni Emily Ann Roberts, and Grand Ole Opry member Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, alongside multiple Grammy nominees The Grascals.
In addition to the substantial music offerings, Dollywood is introducing several new attractions to enhance this year’s festival experience. These include the LumiNights Dance Parties and an Apple Market filled with seasonal delights, as well as Harvey’s Boo Bash, an exclusive after-hours event themed around the park’s pumpkin mascot, Harvey.
The LumiNights Dance Parties will offer guests a vibrant atmosphere with two nightly dance experiences, surrounded by thousands of glowing jack-o-lanterns and captivating Halloween displays. Meanwhile, the Apple Market, located at the Dollywood Express train depot, will serve a variety of autumnal treats such as fried apple pies, apple dumplings, and apple cider flights, providing an authentic taste of the season.
Harvey’s Boo Bash is set for the evenings of 16, 23, and 30 October, following the park’s closure. Ticket holders will have the unique opportunity to explore the Great Pumpkin LumiNights festivities as well as partake in other engaging activities. These include candy stations, special dance parties, and extended access to selected rides, including the newly launched NightFlight Expedition.
As the festival draws nearer, excitement is palpable among both park officials and fans alike. The inclusion of popular live performances combined with fresh attractions is expected to attract visitors from far and wide, each eager to celebrate the enduring legacy of Dolly Parton.
The Harvest Festival serves not just as a celebration of autumn, but as a heartfelt homage to an artist whose influence has transcended generations. With live music, festive activities, and a spirit of homage, Dollywood aims to encapsulate the joy and warmth of this beloved time of year in a manner that would undoubtedly delight Parton herself.
The 2023 Harvest Festival at Dollywood promises to be a splendid union of entertainment and autumnal beauty, reaffirming Dolly Parton’s monumental impact on both the park and its visitors. As festivities commence, the excitement surrounding this year’s event will surely echo the sentiments of Parton’s own description of autumnal beauty.