Smoky Mountain Christmas celebrates 11 Years

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, from November 10 through January 5, adds even more merry memory making moments with the addition of the impressive Glacier Ridge. With the all-new Glacier Ridge, guests can experience the Smokies at Christmas in a way they never have before. The novel and immense experience of Glacier Ridge pushes the park’s total count to more than five million twinkling lights. Located in the areas of the park known as Timber Canyon, Wilderness Pass, and the upper portion of Craftsman’s Valley, Glacier Ridge is a must-see during Smoky Mountain Christmas.

“Christmas is so important to me for so many reasons,” Dolly Parton said. “I’m so thankful that it’s a time when our family comes together to share stories, remember old times, and make new memories we’ll take with us through the next year and beyond. There’s a lot of laughin’ and a whole lot of love when we all get together. I want those folks who come to experience Christmas with us at Dollywood to feel like they’re part of the family, making those memories and sharing those special times. I know the fun they’ll find in Glacier Ridge will help them create brand new memories and traditions.”

As guests near Glacier Ridge, they’ll feel as if the Smokies have frozen over, thanks to an arctic color palette and an atmosphere sure to wow guests. The Plaza at Wilderness Pass transforms into a winter wonderland, complete with a 50 foot (15 m) tall animated tree which anchors the area. Every 30 minutes the Plaza sparkles to life to present a fully-synchronised, dazzling light show complete with holiday hits that will have guests singing along.

For guests entering from Timber Canyon, the Arctic Passage, a 130 foot (40 m) long programmable light tunnel, transports them into Glacier Ridge in a stunning array of light and colour. Once emerging from the tunnel, guests will be greeted by polar bears who have made a home at Drop Line Bay. Because the Smokies have frozen to create Glacier Ridge, these friends from the North are able to spend time with their Smoky Mountain cousins.

Those coming to Glacier Ridge through Craftsman’s Valley experience a one-of-a-kind new light installation that mimics the natural phenomenon known as the aurora borealis. Guests can walk through Dollywood’s version of the northern lights, which is brought to life with music, making it feel as if the aurora borealis has come south, even if for just a few weeks.