Hey, fellow runners and Dollywood fans! We have some exciting news to share about an amazing event happening soon right here in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. On April 25-26, Dollywood is hosting its very first Run Dollywood race weekend, and you won’t want to miss it!
This inaugural event is just the beginning, as there's also a second half-marathon planned for September 26-27 during the Harvest Festival. To kick things off, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton celebrated the countdown by running through the park with members of the media, and it was a fantastic sight!
A Blooming Experience Awaits!
For those participating in the April races, you can expect to be surrounded by one million blooming flowers during the Flower & Food Festival. Plus, you’ll get to soak in the beautiful scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains as you run. The weekend's lineup includes a marquee half-marathon on Sunday, and on Saturday, there are various races—like a 1-mile kids' fun run, a 5K, and a 10K.
Eugene Naughton shared, “I’m an avid runner myself, so welcoming runners to our first Run Dollywood weekend is incredibly exciting for me personally. We can’t wait for everyone to experience this one-of-a-kind course, complete with live music, on-course entertainment, and those special Dollywood surprises that make every step memorable.”
Don’t Miss Out!
If you’re hoping to participate in the half-marathon on April 26, you’d better hurry—a limited number of entries are still available. Registrations for the kids' fun run on April 25 are also open. Bib pickup and a race expo will take place on Friday, April 24, at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. Runners will receive exclusive inaugural race medals, event-specific T-shirts, and their race bibs. And let’s not forget the best part: after you cross the finish line, you can enjoy Dollywood’s award-winning attractions and shows, recognized as the #1 theme park in the U.S. by Tripadvisor users.
Looking Ahead to Fall!
If you’re unable to make it in April, don’t worry! The new Run Dollywood half-marathon during the Harvest Festival will allow runners to relish the crisp autumn air while experiencing the magical glow of the Great Pumpkin LumiNights.
As Dollywood embarks on its 2026 season, it’s shaping up to be the biggest yet, celebrating 41 glorious years of fun! With everything from the opening of NightFlight Expedition to new themed events and experiences, there's something for everyone!