by: Hope McAlee Posted: Mar 13, 2026 / 07:12 AM EDT PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — Friday is opening day at Dollywood, and East Tennessee icon Dolly Parton was in attendance for the first day of the park’s 41st season. The park opened for the first day of the 2026 season and the I Will Always Love […]

by: Hannah Moore Posted: Nov 21, 2025 / 08:39 AM EST Updated: Nov 21, 2025 / 08:39 AM EST PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — A new resort has opened in Pigeon Forge, anticipated to create over 100 full-time jobs. This dual-branded resort, situated on Jake Thomas Road minutes from Dollywood, includes an Embassy Suites by Hilton Pigeon Forge Resort and […]

by: Klaryssa De La Cruz Posted: Nov 24, 2025 / 05:25 PM EST Updated: Nov 24, 2025 / 05:25 PM EST SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — Tourism leaders across the Smokies say the holiday season is arriving earlier than usual this year, with attractions already seeing heavier foot traffic ahead of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Pigeon Forge typically welcomes about […]