When May 2, 2025, arrived, Dolly Parton and her business partners gathered in Pigeon Forge to raise their glasses of sweet tea in honor of Dollywood’s 40th year.
That same day also welcomed guests to the newly launched Wilderness Pass restaurant inside the park. During the festivities, Parton hinted that something even bigger might be coming soon, a new attraction that could be the park’s most daring project yet.
Rather than just speaking from the stage, Parton went back to how it all began. She reenacted a memory from May 3, 1986, when she stood on a massive cake during Dollywood’s first birthday.
For this 40-year milestone, she dressed in a glammed-up version of the outfit she wore back then, honoring the celebration’s roots.
A Throwback to the Beginning
While addressing the crowd at Celebrity Theater, Parton asked them, “Can you believe it’s been four decades?” She expressed how much their support has meant over the years. She reminded them of the love that has fueled her work, even referencing her famous lyrics, “I will always love you.”
Dollywood’s journey was revisited as Parton shared the stage with Eugene Naughton, Peter Herschend, and Ted Miller. The trio discussed their experiences working with Parton since 1986, when the partnership between her and Herschend Family Entertainment began.
They exchanged heartfelt memories, spoke about how far the park has come, and touched on what they hoped to see in the years ahead. The conversation was led by Beth Haynes, who helped guide their reflections throughout the event.
During a toast with sweet tea, Parton turned to the crowd and gave them credit. She said that without the people who believed in the dream, Dollywood would not have become what it is now. “Cheers to 40 years,” she said warmly, lifting her glass in appreciation.
What Dolly Parton Treasures Most About Dollywood
While “Love every moment” became the official slogan in 2014, Parton has lived that motto since the park’s earliest days.
She shared how joyful it has been for her to witness each new addition, each change, and to be part of something that continues to grow. “I always feel thrilled when something new comes together,” she said.
Back in 1982, Parton revealed in an interview with Barbara Walters that she had a dream to build a theme park close to the Smoky Mountains.
She said it was important to her to honor her roots, her family, and the people who helped shape her. But she also admitted to being nervous that her dream might not be embraced.
She described the nervous excitement she felt on opening day. “It felt like waiting for guests at your first party,” she said. But when cars started arriving, she was overcome with gratitude and relief, saying she knew then that it was going to turn out well.
The Park’s Deeper Meaning
Dollywood has grown into much more than just another amusement destination. Ted Miller, who once managed Silver Dollar City before Dollywood, explained that Parton brought something different.
He said that while many parks might have impressive rides, they often miss the warmth and personality that Dollywood offers.
That, he said, comes directly from Parton’s influence. He also mentioned how staff treat every guest with kindness because they try to match the way Dolly herself would treat people.
Holding Onto Her Background
Dolly has always made it clear that she feels a strong connection to the park’s community. “They are my people,” she once said. From her choice of songs to how the park honors Southern traditions, her roots have remained at the heart of Dollywood.
When asked about what’s ahead, Dollywood President Eugene Naughton said Parton always challenges the team to think bigger.
He praised her ideas, especially the way she prioritizes experiences that bring families together. As the park looks forward to its next chapters, Parton’s instincts and vision continue to guide the way.
