Dolly Parton's Homecoming Parade!

Pigeon Forge has a rousing way to end the work week on Friday, May 10 – find a spot on the Parkway and give a cheer to hometown superstar Dolly Parton.

The occasion is Dolly’s Homecoming Parade, Pigeon Forge’s annual salute to the internationally known entertainer and philanthropist, who also is a mainstay of the local tourism economy.
|

| 
“Dolly’s Homecoming Parade always attracts tens of thousands of fans. They know Dolly herself will be on the first big float,” said Leon Downey, executive director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, which organizes the parade.

Parton’s creative staff always keeps the theme of her float under wraps until parade day, but it often reflects something new at Dollywood, Dollywood’s Splash Country or Dixie Stampede.

Downey said there is float speculation about a new Dollywood show that Parton wrote and about a new multi-million dollar ride at Splash Country, Tennessee’s first “water coaster.”

“Whatever it is, it will be a hit,” he said.

Close to 100 floats, marching bands, vehicles and organizations already are signed up to be in the parade. The mix always includes antique cars, fire trucks,  floats from various Pigeon Forge theaters and attractions, twirling groups, equestrian units and beauty queens in convertibles.

The parade will occupy the northbound lanes of the Parkway, starting near Traffic Light 6 and ending at Traffic Light 3.

“The entire route is available for spectators, and everyone will get to wave to Dolly. Her float includes a speaker system, and she chats with fans all along the parade route,” Downey said.

For information about all aspects of Pigeon Forge and other city-sponsored events, visit MyPigeonForge.com or call toll-free to 1-800-251-9100.
|
Media Contact:
Tom Adkinson, APR
for Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism
tadkinson@bohanideas.com
615-341-8796
|