Spring at Dollywood 2026: NightFlight Expedition, Festivals & Opening Day

Spring in the Smoky Mountains feels fresh, exciting, and full of possibility, and in 2026, that energy is especially strong at Dollywood. With the debut of NightFlight Expedition, Dollywood’s most anticipated new attraction, and a full lineup of spring festivals and seasonal openings, this is shaping up to be one of the park’s most memorable spring seasons yet.

At Bear Cove Cabins, we know that the best Dollywood vacations start with the perfect place to stay. When you book a Smoky Mountain cabin near Dollywood, you’re not just reserving a place to sleep – you’re setting the tone for your entire trip. After a day of rides, music, and springtime events, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a cozy cabin with mountain views, where you can unwind, recharge, and get ready to do it all again tomorrow.

Whether you’re planning your visit specifically to experience NightFlight Expedition, timing your trip around one of Dollywood’s spring festivals, or simply looking for the best season to explore the park, Spring 2026 offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation – and Bear Cove Cabins is here to help you make the most of it.

NightFlight Expedition: Dollywood's New Must-Ride Attraction for Spring 2026

NightFlight Expedition is one of the biggest new attractions arriving at Dollywood in 2026 and is already creating excitement among families, thrill-seekers, and longtime park fans.

This brand-new indoor hybrid attraction at Dollywood, located in the Wildwood Grove area, combines the excitement of a hybrid coaster with the fluid motion of a whitewater river ride. Instead of feeling like a single ride, NightFlight Expedition offers a continuous adventure that appeals to a wide range of ages.

As the journey unfolds, riders follow Cora and Jasper Oakley as they explore the mystery of a legendary Secret Lake using immersive lighting, sound, and themed environments. Smooth transitions between coaster elements and water-driven motion keep the experience exciting from start to finish.

Because NightFlight Expedition is fully enclosed, it operates rain or shine, making it a dependable must-do attraction all spring long—regardless of what the Smoky Mountains weather brings.

Dollywood Opens for the 2026 Season on March 13

Dollywood officially opens for the 2026 season on March 13, welcoming guests back just as the Smoky Mountains begin to bloom. Early spring offers mild temperatures, fresh scenery, and a relaxed pace, making it easy to enjoy rides, shows, and seasonal experiences without the summer crowds.

Opening day also marks the beginning of Dollywood’s spring festival lineup, providing visitors with more reasons to plan an early-season visit.

I Will Always Love You Music Festival - Begins March 13, 2026

Launching on opening day, the I Will Always Love You Music Festival celebrates Dollywood's spirit with live performances, heartfelt storytelling, and Appalachian-inspired music. Shows take place on several stages throughout the park, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests visiting early in the season.

For travelers planning a March getaway, this festival offers extra entertainment, making opening week an especially meaningful time to visit Dollywood.

Flower & Food Festival - April 18 through June 7, 2026

As spring advances, Dollywood transforms into one of its most visually stunning events of the year – the Flower & Food Festival, running from April 18 through June 7, 2026. During this time, the park comes alive with vibrant floral displays, artistic sculptures, and limited-time food options featuring seasonal flavors.

This festival pairs perfectly with a spring cabin stay, providing a relaxed pace and scenic beauty that match the natural charm of the Smoky Mountains.

Splash Country Opens May 16, 2026

As temperatures begin to warm, Dollywood’s Splash Country opens for the season on May 16, 2026. This water park is a popular spot for families visiting in late spring and early summer, making May a great time to plan a longer stay in the area. It’s the perfect

Staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin near Dollywood lets our guests enjoy both parks while still having a peaceful retreat to come back to each evening.

Planning Your Spring 2026 Dollywood Getaway

With a major new attraction, seasonal festivals, and two park openings throughout spring 2026, it is an ideal time to plan a Dollywood vacation. Picking the right accommodations allows you to focus on enjoying the experience rather than handling logistics.

2026 Dollywood Packages & Smoky Mountain Cabins Near Dollywood

Bear Cove Cabins offers Dollywood packages for 2026 that combine park tickets with the comfort and convenience of a Smoky Mountain cabin near Dollywood. These packages are perfect for families, couples, and groups planning a trip around NightFlight Expedition while still enjoying everything else Dollywood has to offer.

Staying in a Bear Cove cabin offers the space, privacy, and peaceful mountain surroundings you desire – all just minutes from Dollywood’s entrance. For guests who want to plan their trip on their own, Dollywood tickets for 2026 are also available directly through Bear Cove Cabins.

Ready to Experience Spring at Dollywood?

With NightFlight Expedition launching alongside spring festivals and seasonal park openings, now is the perfect time to start planning your Smoky Mountain getaway. Whether you’re visiting specifically for Dollywood’s newest attraction or organizing a full spring vacation around the park’s events, staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin near Dollywood makes all the difference.

From spacious accommodations to convenient Dollywood packages for 2026, Bear Cove Cabins makes planning simple and stress-free – so you can focus on creating memories with your family.

Spring festival weekends and NightFlight Expedition dates are likely to sell out fast. Book early for the best availability.