It’s a LUCKY Friday the 13th in May 2016, because at Dollywood it’s the date that the annual Barbeque and Bluegrass festival starts. From May 13 through May 22, it’s 10 days of awesome food and non-stop music at venues throughout the theme park. The concerts are all free, included in Dollywood admission.
Images courtesy of Dollywood
For the food, some 50,000 pounds of BBQ meat comes to the grill over the 10 days, cooked by experts and dressed with gourmet sauces. Pulled pork, smoked sausage, ribs by the slab and smoked chicken are among the offerings during the festival.
Baked beans, cornbread, and corn on the cob make up the plate for an unforgettable meal. Desserts and sweet things are not forgotten either, with treats for the kids and grown-ups alike.
And what about the music, during this great start to summer? Who’s playing? The answer is, everyone! The four stages of Dollywood will accommodate more than 50 bands over the 10 days – be sure to check the performance schedule page.
The acts will range from old favorites and famous names such as Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, to acts that may be new to you, all picked with the unerring ear for great music that marks the Dollywood style, and Dolly Parton’s. For some great music, the popular Willis Clan are back, after a year’s absence, and is it our imagination or did the clan get even bigger?
Lonesome River Band is coming this season, and young Willow Osborne appears also, striding forward into stardom and growing before our eyes. There’s a mix of country, LOTS of bluegrass, and songs old and new, with a vast array of talent packing the festival.
Dollywood is a fun day or evening for the whole family at any time, an exciting place, and during its special festivals the park takes on an additional air of excitement, if such a s thing is possible above its regular magic.
Many, many people love Dollywood, so if you’re not fond of crowds, even the super friendly ones in this Smoky Mountains part of the world, study the Dollywood website in advance and choose your times. And be sure not to miss the star acts and tasty feasts of the Barbeque & Bluegrass festival.
