Sarah Brady
Updated on: October 15, 2024 10:41 am GMT
After a few days of disruption due to severe weather from Hurricane Helene, Dollywood is set to reopen its doors to visitors, allowing them to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its annual Harvest Festival. The park will open from 12 PM to 9 PM today, offering a much-anticipated experience for guests in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Weather Impact on Dollywood Operations
The remnants of Hurricane Helene led to challenging conditions in East Tennessee, affecting the operations of Dollywood. The park had to delay its opening on September 27 and was entirely closed on September 26 due to rain and wind.
- Dollywood reopened today at 10 AM.
- Operating hours were adjusted for the Harvest Festival.
- Both Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort are open with regular hours.
A park spokesperson, Wes Ramey, confirmed that guests could return to the park and experience the festivities without further interruptions. The theme park thrives on providing family-friendly entertainment, and its reopening indicates a return to normalcy after the recent weather events.
Flood Warnings Continue
Despite the reopening, the area faces ongoing challenges. A flood warning is still in effect until midnight on September 28, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
- Parts of the Great Smoky National Park have received over 9 inches of rain in the past few days.
- Flooding remains a concern for low-lying areas and waterways, particularly rivers, creeks, and streams.
- The NWS advised caution due to low-water crossings that may be inundated and impassable.
Images and reports from earlier flooding show how quickly the conditions can change, reminding everyone of the power of nature.
Park Policy on Weather Disruptions
Dollywood is known for its guest-friendly policies. In the event of weather-related disruptions:
- Guests can request rain checks or refunds if their visit ends early.
- Rain checks are available at any ticket window and valid until the end of the season.
- Recent guests were encouraged to contact the park for any ticket-related inquiries.
Such measures are designed to ensure that visitors feel supported even during unpredictable weather conditions.
Previous Flooding Incidents
Earlier this summer, Dollywood faced significant challenges when heavy rains led to 4.5 inches of rainfall in a single day. This sudden downpour resulted in guests experiencing a chaotic and memorable event as waters began inundating the park.
- Flood waters affected the parking lots and even entered some buildings.
- Though one guest sustained a minor injury, there was no significant property damage.
- The park was able to resume normal operations after thorough cleanup efforts.
Dollywood staff and emergency services acted swiftly to minimize risks and ensure safety during these incidents.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect at Dollywood
With the Harvest Festival now in full swing, Dollywood guests can anticipate a range of activities:
- Seasonal decorations and fall-themed events.
- Special performances and entertainment featuring local talent.
- A variety of food options highlighting autumn flavors.
The park is ready to welcome visitors back to enjoy these experiences and create lasting memories with friends and family.
As the weather stabilizes and the festival continues, Dollywood promises fun for attendees of all ages.
Conclusion
Dollywood is reopening, and that’s great news for everyone! Locals and tourists are excited to enjoy the fun and lively atmosphere of the park. Even though we need to be careful because of some weather warnings, the park and officials are working hard to keep everyone safe and happy. Whether you’re there for the rides, the shows, or the yummy food, Dollywood has something special for everyone this harvest season. Make sure to stay updated on the park’s hours and events since the weather can change.
