Dolly Parton returned to Dollywood on Friday to kick off the park’s 41st season, reassuring fans about her health while celebrating a major milestone year for both the park and the country.
The country music icon appeared at the park as Dollywood launched its new season with celebrations tied to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, including patriotic décor, new entertainment and demonstrations of traditional Appalachian craftsmanship.
“Here we are in the middle of God’s country,” Eugene Naughton, president of The Dollywood Company, said.
“The love of the Smoky Mountains is one of the things that locks people into wanting to come here, and we’re fortunate to have the number one visited national park just six miles away.”
Dollywood is also unveiling a major new attraction this season, the $50 million indoor adventure coaster NightFlight Expedition, inspired by the bioluminescent synchronous fireflies that light up the Smoky Mountains each summer.
