If you’re dreaming of a mountain getaway filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and family fun, Christmas in the Smokies at Dollywood is a must-see holiday event. Each year, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas transforms the beloved theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with over six million lights, heartwarming shows, and holiday magic.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another unforgettable season, here’s everything you need to know about Dollywood Christmas 2025.

✨ Millions of Lights and Mountain Magic

During Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, every inch of the park glows with holiday spirit. Walk through Glacier Ridge, where cool blues and shimmering snowflakes create a peaceful, icy escape. Stroll down Craftsman’s Valley and Jukebox Junction for classic red-and-green displays that capture the charm of a traditional Christmas in the South.

At night, the park comes alive with “Merry & Bright!”, a breathtaking fireworks and drone light show that lights up the Smoky Mountain sky — the perfect way to end your evening.

🎶 Holiday Shows That Warm the Heart

A visit to Dollywood during Christmas isn’t complete without seeing one of the park’s award-winning live performances. Signature shows like “Christmas in the Smokies,” “O Holy Night,” and “Twas the Night Before Christmas” fill the air with gospel harmonies, heartfelt storytelling, and a joyful reminder of what the season is all about.

These productions are consistently ranked among the best Christmas shows in Pigeon Forge, making Dollywood one of the top holiday destinations in the Southeast.

🎢 Rides and Thrills with a Holiday Twist

Even in winter, Dollywood’s world-class rides are open (weather permitting). Take a breathtaking ride on the Dollywood Express Train, where you can enjoy views of the Smoky Mountains and sparkling lights from a cozy seat. Thrill-seekers can soar through the chilly air on rides like Lightning Rod and Wild Eagle, adding a rush of excitement to the holiday cheer.

🍪 Festive Treats and Holiday Eats

Part of the magic of Dollywood Christmas 2025 is the food! From gingerbread funnel cakes and cinnamon bread to hot cocoa and apple cider, every corner of the park tempts you with the smells and flavors of the season. They even offer a Tasting Pass which you can purchase for a set price and then try 5 holiday samplings.

If you love Southern comfort food, stop by one of Dollywood’s signature restaurants for a hearty holiday meal — perfect after a day of festive fun.

🎅 Family Fun and Santa’s Village

Families visiting Dollywood at Christmas will find endless joy in Santa’s Village, where children can meet Santa, take photos, and enjoy hands-on activities. Don’t miss the “Santa’s List” show, a delightful performance that reminds everyone — young and old — about the true spirit of giving.

The park also features themed photo ops, glowing trees, and cozy fire pits, making it one of the best family-friendly Christmas attractions in Pigeon Forge.

🌟 Tips for Visiting Dollywood Christmas 2025

• Buy Tickets Early: This event is extremely popular — consider purchasing online in advance.


• Arrive Before Sunset: You’ll want to experience the lights both in daylight and after dark.


• Dress in Layers: The Smoky Mountain weather can be chilly at night!


• Plan for Shows: Check the daily schedule for showtimes and make them part of your itinerary.

The Beak & Barrel officially opened it's doors to the public August 29th, 2025. This new experience is a pirates themed tavern located at Disney's Magic Kingdom in Adventureland, right next to the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.  Given the theming, it continues the lore of Pirates of the Caribbean: storytelling, immersive décor, cast members in character, atmospheric rooms (the Captain’s Quarters, the Mapmaker’s Room, the Mess) etc.

Whether you're a fan of cocktails or prefer non-alcoholic options, there are several interesting choices. Some fruity, some more complex. Definitely not just “theme park bar food/drink” in the bland sense. I tried both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options: Plunderer’s Punch was fun (especially with the souvenir skull mug, though pricey), and the non-alcoholic one Treasure Trove is creative and indulgent. I will say some of the alcoholic drinks can be stronger than others. The small plates are tasty and thematic. They’re not full meals, but perfect paired with drinks.

My Verdict: Is It Worth Visiting?

Short answer: Yes, it is — especially if you work it into your plan smartly.

Here’s how I size it up:

• The Beak & Barrel delivers strongly on theming, novelty, and immersive experience. For many guests, those are exactly the kinds of memories that stand out.


• It’s not a “must for everyone,” but for a decent segment of Disney visitors — especially repeat visitors or those seeking unique dining/entertainment — this is definitely worth doing.


• If you’re staying at Disney property and have flexible schedules, you can likely make this stop without sacrificing too much of your park time. It can serve as a luxury interlude in an otherwise packed day.

1.  Book early — Set reminders for when your dining window open (60 days). For Disney resort guests, try first thing in the morning, or even before opening time.


2. Know what you want ahead of time — Because of the time limit, have a rough idea of which drinks / small bites you want. Don’t spend the whole time deciding.


3. Go with smaller party sizes if possible — With large parties, reservations are harder; splitting up or staggering can help.


4. Plan in your schedule buffer — Account for travel time inside the park, walking, waiting, etc. Don’t squeeze this in tight with something else you must do immediately after, because you might run late.


5. Budget accordingly — Expect the drinks and themed items to cost more, especially with souvenir options. Factor that into your daily spend.


6. Don’t forget children/non-drinkers — The non-alcoholic drinks are good, and the atmosphere is family-friendly, so even if only part of your group drinks, the stop can still work well.

If you’ve been dreaming of visiting Disneyland Resort, 2025 is the year to go. The 70th Anniversary Celebration is officially unwrapped and is bursting with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, magical shows, exclusive entertainment, and nostalgic tributes to 70 years of Disney magic.

As a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations, I’m here to give you the full scoop on why this milestone year is the perfect time to plan your Disneyland adventure.

✨ Here’s What Makes the 70th Anniversary So Special:

1. The Return of Paint the Night Parade
Back by popular demand, this electrifying nighttime parade features glowing floats, unforgettable music, and characters like Elsa, Lightning McQueen, and Baymax. The lights alone are worth the trip!

2. “Wondrous Journeys” Nighttime Spectacular
This guest-favorite firework and projection show celebrating 100 years of Disney Animation returns for select nights with unforgettable visuals across Sleeping Beauty Castle and Main Street, U.S.A.

3. NEW “World of Color – ONE: Happiness!”
Debuting at Disney California Adventure, this fresh take on the fan-favorite water show includes vibrant colors, fountains, music, and interactive voting powered by the Disneyland app!

4. Pixar Daytime Parade – “Better Together”
Watch nearly 30 Pixar characters, including the Incredibles, Joy & Sadness, and Coco’s Miguel, dance through DCA in an upbeat celebration of friendship and unity.

5. Celebrate Happy Cavalcade
This short-but-sweet mini parade features Mickey, Minnie, Duffy, ShellieMay, and more waving from colorfully decorated vehicles, spreading joy throughout the park.

🎭 Exclusive Anniversary Shows & Experiences

6. “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” Attraction
Just opened this July, this brand-new experience inside the Disneyland Opera House features the first-ever animatronic of Walt Disney himself alongside emotional film storytelling and rare Disney archives.

7. “A Story of Celebration” Guided Tour
Learn the history and magic of Disneyland Park with this 2-hour walking tour, spotlighting original attractions and storytelling milestones from 1955 to now.

8. Tapestry of Dreams Projection Show
“it’s a small world” gets a nighttime overlay featuring whimsical mosaic-style animation paying tribute to the park’s global themes and colorful design legacy.

🎉 Interactive Magic for Guests

9. MagicBand+ 70th Anniversary Activations
MagicBand+ isn’t just for ride entry! In 2025, guests can unlock special interactive medallions, glow effects, and collectible tickets at key landmarks—plus sync to parades and fireworks!

🍽️ Limited-Time Food & Dining Events
10. Paint the Night Dining Package
Enjoy a delicious lunch at Plaza Inn and score reserved viewing for the dazzling Paint the Night parade—a must for families and parade lovers.

11. Donald’s Camp-Themed Buffet
This festive character meal at Storyteller’s Café features Donald, Daisy, and friends in themed outfits, plus hearty BBQ favorites for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

12. Galaxy’s Edge Nighttime Gathering
At Docking Bay 7, enjoy limited-edition menu items and exclusive fireworks viewing during the return of 'Fire of the Rising Moons' in Batuu.

🎁 Commemorative Merch, Décor & Photo Ops

13. Over 70 Themed Food & Beverage Items
From anniversary churros and cupcakes to collectible popcorn buckets and sippers—you’ll want to taste (and Instagram) them all.

14. New 70th Anniversary Merchandise Lines
Shop from modern and vintage-style apparel, accessories, and collectibles—including Vault Collection throwbacks and castle-themed pieces.

15. PhotoPass Magic Shots + Mickey & Minnie in 70th Costumes
Capture your visit with exclusive PhotoPass lenses and meet Mickey & Minnie in their royal-blue 70th outfits at Town Square.

🎊 BONUS: Disney Weddings – New Venues for 2025 Brides

For couples dreaming of a fairytale ceremony, Disneyland is unveiling 3 brand-new wedding venues inside the park, including Fantasy Faire Garden near the castle and Magnolia Park in New Orleans Square. Yes—you can now get married before park opening with a Disneyland Railroad exit!

💡 Final Thoughts: Why You Should Book Now

The 70th Anniversary Celebration is a limited-time event expected to run from May 2025 through early 2026, and demand will be high for:

• Park tickets and reservations


• On-property Disneyland Resort hotel rooms


• Dining packages and guided tours