Showcasing acts from the park's upcoming year, Dolly Parton helped launch Dollywood's Season of Showstoppers during a special preview event.

Dollywood kicked off its 33rd season with a special preview event hosted by Dolly Parton. This incredible year is one which surely will be remembered for the amazing quality of entertainment. Dollywood's entertainment team invested $1 million more in its 2018 offerings than any other single year of entertainment in its history.

The preview event featured performances by the National Dance Company of Siberia, PAINTJAM featuring Ricardo Barazza, Janie Fricke, Orleans, Larnelle Harris and others. For the finale, Dolly joined Ladysmith Black Mambazo backed by Orleans for a beautiful performance of "Peace Train." Dolly recorded the song written by Cat Stevens on her 1996 "Treasures" album which featured Ladysmith Black Mambazo.

Dollywood has won Amusement Today's Golden Ticket Award for Best Theme Park Entertainment for nine years. And with 2018's commitment, the park again looks to lead the way for the award.

Dollywood's Season of Showstoppers

Festival of Nations (March 16 -- April 9)
Spring Mix Music Series (April 11 - April 29)
Barbeque & Bluegrass (May 25 - June 10)
Summer Celebration (June 16 - August 5)
Rock The Smokies (August 25)
Harvest Festival (September 28 - November 3)
Smoky Mountain Christmas (November 10 - January 5)

Aunt Granny's

Opening day also served as the unveiling of the newly renovated Aunt Granny's restaurant. The eatery is named after the affectionate nickname Dolly's nieces and nephews have for her as she acts as both aunt and granny to them as well as to some of her younger siblings. The restaurant is one of the parks original features. Its buffet style dining offers guests delicious comfort foods including Mama's Stone Soup. Read famous Stone Soup story in A Mother's Love & Inspiration - Avie Lee Parton.

For more information about multi-day ticket options, 2018 Dollywood season passes or Dollywood’s Season of Showstoppers visit Dollywood.com or call 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.

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Photo Credit: Curtis Hilbun