Dolly asked if families were ready to crush the rush before launching RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, for the first time on May 10, 2013, at her Dollywood’s Splash Country waterpark. Dolly said,
“Growing up, playing in the creeks and streams here in the Smoky Mountains, I could only dream of something like a water coaster. But look at us now... not only does Dollywood’s Splash Country have Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, we’re making water run uphill in it!”
Dolly hosted media representatives from across the country to launch the 2013 season at the waterpark.
Prior to the opening of Dollywood’s Splash Country’s RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster, Dolly appeared as grand marshal of the 2013 Dolly Homecoming Parade on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Standing atop the RiverRush float on a lifeguard stand, Dolly waved to thousands of people lining the streets during this annual event which serves as a welcome home to everyone’s favorite local girl.
As Dolly opened Dollywood for its 28th season, she announced the addition of a new festival, Great American Summer, along with new shows and a lot more family time! Dolly "made time for happy" during her appearances, as she dropped in on shows throughout the park and took a tour of the park to greet all the guests.
Dolly credits her Uncle Bill Owens with being one of her earliest supporters and one of the biggest reasons she reached for her childhood dreams. On March 23, 2013, she dedicated a section of her Chasing Rainbows Museum at Dollywood in honor of Uncle Bill and everything he has done for her. The room features pictures, songs, her very first single and, occasionally, Uncle Bill himself!
Dolly kicked off one of her favorite seasons at Dollywood with a brand new addition, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Miniature Railroad. This fascinating multi-level model train display spans 1,000 square feet and features six different garden-gauge trains, complete with bridges and a working waterfall.
Dolly’s award-winning festival gives families a place to come together and celebrate Christmas at Dollywood. Dolly said,
“My Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood is that special place where folks can make their memories and celebrate their own traditions with the ones they love. It truly is the most wonderful time of the year!”
Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood is presented by Humana.
