Dolly Parton’s Stampede Christmas Show 2025: Dates, New Features, and the Ultimate Smoky Mountain Feast
Quick Takeaways: Experience unforgettable holiday magic at Dolly Parton’s Stampede Christmas Show in Pigeon Forge! This festive dinner attraction features a four-course Southern feast, dazzling holiday performances with live animals, and fun audience interaction, including a hilarious pre-show. Perfect for families visiting the Smoky Mountains at Christmastime. Book early, arrive hungry, and get ready for an evening full of laughs, lights, and Dolly-style cheer!
If you’re looking to inject some pure holiday magic into your Christmas season, let me steer you straight to Dolly Parton’s Stampede in Pigeon Forge. It’s more than a dinner show, it’s a high-spirited celebration of the holidays with showstopping talent, a full Southern feast, and just the right dash of Dolly-style whimsy. Planning a Christmastime getaway to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? We know the holiday magic starts with early preparation. Our family typically books our cabin nearly a year in advance to snag the perfect spot. And now that we’re almost halfway to Christmas, we couldn’t wait to share some festive fun you won’t want to miss in the Smokies!
We’ve experienced this dinner show during the regular season, but visiting at Christmastime was truly something special. The holiday version quickly became a highlight of our trip—festive, heartwarming, and delightfully over-the-top in all the best ways.
Arrive Early: The Pre-Show Is Half the Fun
One of the best tips I can give: arrive early. Before the main event begins, guests are treated to a pre-show in the Saloon featuring live bluegrass music, comedy, and plenty of crowd interaction.
And here’s where things got especially memorable for our crew.
The performers asked for volunteers from the audience, and—much to his surprise—our oldest son was picked. He’s an adult and usually avoids the spotlight like it’s a line for roller coasters, but with some family encouragement (and a few raised eyebrows from us), he reluctantly agreed.
Moments later, there he was, center stage, galloping around in a circle on a bright pink toy horse, trying his best to look serious. We were howling with laughter, and so was the rest of the audience. It was goofy, unexpected, and absolutely unforgettable. That pink-horse moment is now a family legend.
2025 Information
- Dates: The 2025 Christmas Show runs from October 29, 2025, through January 3, 2026.
- Cost: Ticket prices for the Pigeon Forge show start at approximately $59.99 plus taxes and fees for adults.
- Feast: The signature four-course, no-silverware holiday meal is back and as filling as ever.
The 2025 Christmas Show: What’s New and Exciting
While the core magic of the Stampede remains with the thrilling horse-riding stunts, friendly North Pole vs. South Pole rivalry, and audience interaction, the 2025 edition features these key updates:
The most noticeable upgrade is the integration of the new LED arena wall. This isn’t just a screen; it’s a dynamic backdrop that transports the audience. You’ll move seamlessly from the snow-dusted foothills surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains into a fantastical holiday wonderland, greatly enhancing the immersive experience of the entire production.
Another returning highlight is the dazzling “Elegance on Ice” segment. For a period, the entire 35,000-square-foot arena is transformed into a shimmering frozen wonderland where world-class ice skaters perform graceful, high-flying routines. It’s a stunning moment of beauty that offers a fantastic contrast to the high-speed thrills of the equestrian acts.
Finally, the famous “Magic of Toys” sequence gets a refreshed look with a spectacular aerial performance set to the music of The Nutcracker. Watch as the Sugar Plum Fairy brings favorite childhood toys to life in a stunning display that delights kids and adults alike.
A Feast Fit for a Cowboy
Let’s talk food. When Dolly says dinner, she means DINNER. You’re served a four-course meal that’s truly Southern and seriously satisfying. Each guest gets a whole rotisserie chicken, a hickory-smoked pork loin, buttery corn on the cob, herb-basted potato, a warm flaky biscuit, creamy vegetable soup, and an apple turnover for dessert.
And here’s the fun part, you eat with your hands! No silverware. Just old-fashioned finger-lickin’ goodness. My kids thought that alone made it the best restaurant ever.
There are options for dietary restrictions, too, which was great to see. But if you’re going the traditional route, prepare to leave absolutely stuffed.
The Classic Show: A Christmas Classic, Dolly-Style
Once the arena lights dim, you’re transported straight into a holiday fantasy. The Stampede’s Christmas show blends the spectacle of a Wild West performance with the warmth and wonder of a living Christmas card.
Expect horseback riding tricks, live animals, dancing elves, and even a full nativity scene featuring real camels and donkeys. There’s snow, festive music, high-flying stunts, and of course, plenty of heart.
The arena is split into two cheering sides (North Pole vs. South Pole), and the energy is contagious. The audience really becomes part of the show—waving flags (if you buy one), hooting for their team, and fully immersed in the fun.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Do for the Holiday Season
Dolly Parton’s Stampede isn’t just entertainment, it’s an experience. Whether you’re traveling with kids, teens, or grown-up children who end up galloping on toy ponies, it brings families together in a way that’s silly, nostalgic, and truly joyful. It’s a bit of a splurge, but hey, you get dinner and a show taken care of!
If you’re visiting the Smokies and are taking a break from Dollywood, this is a great way to spend an evening. Make sure you add this to your planning! The regular show and holiday show are both amazing! Come early, come hungry, and come ready to laugh until your sides hurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book tickets for the holiday show?
As early as possible! The holiday show is incredibly popular, especially in late November and December. If you’re also booking a cabin in the area, it’s common to reserve it up to a year in advance.
Is there anything to do before the show starts?
Yes! Arrive early for the Saloon pre-show, which features live bluegrass music, comedy, and audience participation. It’s a great way to get in the spirit before the main event starts—and who knows, someone in your group might even get called up to be in the show!
Are there vegetarian or special diet options?
Yes! The Stampede offers meal options for various dietary needs. Just be sure to request them when booking or upon arrival.
What makes the Christmas show different from the regular show?
While both versions include live animals, trick riding, and exciting stunts, the holiday edition adds:
-Christmas music and storytelling
-A living nativity scene
-Elves, festive décor, Santa and even indoor “snow”
-North vs. South Pole team spirit and audience interaction
Where is Dolly Parton’s Stampede located?
You’ll find it right on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, just a short drive from Dollywood and area lodging at 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863.
