·         What are the dates for the 2026 Run Dollywood Race Weekend?

5K, 10K, and Kids Fun Run take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Half Marathon takes place on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

·         What time do the races start?

Saturday, April 25: 5K – 6:30 a.m. | 10K – 8:30 a.m. | Kids Fun Run – 11:00 a.m.

Sunday, April 26: Half Marathon – 6:30 a.m.

Half Marathon, 10K, and Kids Fun Run: Start and finish in Dollywood’s Splash Country parking lot.

5K: Starts in Dollywood Theme Park parking lot and finishes in Dollywood’s Splash Country parking lot.

·         Pacing Requirements

Maintain a 16-minute-per-mile pace for all distances. A 15-minute-per-mile training pace is recommended.

·         What is the Butterfly Challenge?

The Butterfly Challenge is designed for runners ready to take on all three races during the Run Dollywood Race Weekend. Participants who complete the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon will earn an exclusive Butterfly Challenge medal in addition to their individual race medals.

• The Butterfly Challenge includes the 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon races.

• The 5K begins at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

• The 10K begins at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

• Participants will run the 5K and 10K back-to-back on Saturday morning, with a short transition time between races.

• The Half Marathon takes place at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

• To earn the Butterfly Challenge medal, participants must complete all three races.

• The Challenge medal will automatically be awarded to runners who finish all three.

• The Butterfly Challenge medal is exclusive to this event and available only to those who complete all three races.

·         How far is the Kids Run?

The Kids Fun Run will be approximately one mile in length. The course will begin in Dollywood’s Splash Country parking lot and run through Dollywood’s Splash Country. Please note that the Kids Fun Run will not take place inside Dollywood Theme Park.

·         5K: Must be 5 years or older (under 14 must be accompanied by a chaperone 14+).

·         10K: Must be 10 years or older (under 14 must be accompanied by a chaperone 14+).

·         Half Marathon: Must be 14 years or older on race day.

·         Kids Fun Run: Ages 4 – 12 on race day.

Each child participating in the Kids Fun Run may be accompanied by one (1) chaperone or companion. Chaperones are not required to register but must wear a designated companion bib and sign a waiver during packet pick-up to access the racecourse. For safety and space management, only one adult per child is permitted on the course.

·         When can I register?

Online registration opens Wednesday November 12th at Dollywood.com/RunDollywood.

·         Where do I pick up my bib and race shirt?

Bib pick-up and Expo will be held Friday, April 24, from 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at HeartSong Lodge & Resort. There is no race-day bib pick-up.

·         If I can’t attend packet pick-up, can someone else pick it up for me?

Yes.  A friend or family member may collect your packet with a photocopy of your photo ID. To help keep lines moving, please limit packet pick-up to four (4) runners per person.

·         What do I need to bring to pick up my bib?

A valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID). Parents or guardians must sign waivers for minors.

·         Can I change my race distance?

Yes. You can manage all changes and upgrades through your RunSignUp account.

·         When and where is the Race Expo?

The Run Dollywood Race Expo will take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

·         What can I do at the Expo?

Participants can pick up race bibs, shirts, and companion bibs, sign required waivers, and visit vendor booths featuring running gear, apparel, and local partners. It’s also a great opportunity to get race weekend information and connect with fellow runners.

·         Can I register for a race at the Expo?

No. Race registration cut off date is March 31, 2026. Participants must register through RunSignup.

·         Is there an admission fee for the Expo?

No. The Expo is free to attend for all registered participants and their guests.

·         Where should I park for the Expo?

Complimentary parking will be available at HeartSong Lodge & Resort for all Expo attendees. You may park in the Conference Center parking lot for easy access to the race expo.

·         Is the course hilly?

Yes. There will be varying elevation gains throughout the course, especially in the beginning of the route. The course runs through Dollywood Theme Park, Dollywood’s Splash Country, and surrounding areas, featuring rolling terrain typical of the Great Smoky Mountains.

·         Is there a course map or elevation profile?

Coming soon! 

·         What happens if I fall behind the required pace?

Participants must maintain a 16-minute-per-mile pace. Those unable to do so may be redirected or transported to the Runner Recovery Zone.

·         Standard race cut-off

Pace: 16 minutes per mile for all timed races

There will be designated course cut-off locations for both the 10K and Half Marathon. Runners who fall behind the required 16-minute-per-mile pace will be directed to these points and required to return to the Runner Recovery Zone for safety and course management purposes.

Time limit: This is enforced by pace cyclists who follow behind the last runner, sweeping those who fall behind the required pace. For a half marathon, the time limit is 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Recommended pace: A training pace of 15 minutes per mile is recommended to stay ahead of the cut-off pace.

·         Can I walk the race?

Yes, provided you maintain the required pace.

·         Do I need to provide proof of time?

No. Proof of time is not required for any Dollywood race events. 

·         Are race photos included?

Yes! Racecourse photos provided by FinisherPix are complimentary.  

·         Are there additional photo opportunities?

Yes. Dollywood photographers will offer additional photo options available for purchase. There will be special locations throughout the racecourse within Dollywood where unique photo ops will be available.

·         Is bag check available?

Yes. A bag check area will be available for participating runners. Only clear bags will be allowed within the race area and will be provided at bib pick-up.  On the day of your race, bag and coat check will be provided to secure your personal items while racing.  All items checked must be picked up within an hour after the scheduled end of your race. Run Dollywood is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

·         Are there awards?

Yes! Top three male and female finishers in each race will be recognized. Age group awards for the Half Marathon will also be given.

·      What is included with my race registration?

Each registered participant will receive:

• An official Run Dollywood race bib

• A commemorative event T-shirt (one exclusive design for the entire race weekend) 

• A finisher medal upon completion of their event

• Complimentary on-course photos provided by FinisherPix

·         Do I need a Dollywood ticket to participate?

No. A Dollywood Theme Park ticket is not required to participate in a Run Dollywood race. You may register for the race at Dollywood.com/rundollywood using RunSignUp. A discounted ticket package is available for participants during registration. Additional tickets for friends and family may be purchased by visiting www.Dollywood.com or by calling 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.

·         Does my race registration include park entry?

No. Theme Park admission is not included with your race registration. However, a discounted ticket package is available for participants during registration. Additional tickets for friends and family may be purchased by visiting www.Dollywood.com or by calling 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.

·         How do I pick up my Dollywood Tickets that were included in my race package?

Your Dollywood Theme Park tickets will be available during your packet pickup on Friday, April 24, from 12:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at HeartSong Lodge & Resort. There is no race-day bib pick-up.

·         How do the tickets in my Park Admission package work?

Some registration packages include a two-day Dollywood Theme Park ticket, which allows you to visit the park on any two days within five consecutive days of your first visit.

• The first valid entry date for these tickets is Friday, April 24, 2026.
• Tickets are valid for any two park visits between April 24–28, 2026.
• Tickets included in your race package can be picked up during packet pick-up on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

·         How do I purchase tickets Theme Park tickets for my friends and family?

Additional Dollywood Theme Park tickets for friends and family can be purchased beginning in January 2026 by visiting www.Dollywood.com or calling 1-800-DOLLYWOOD.

Discounted ticket packages will also be available for participants during race registration through RunSignUp.

·         Is there a discount for Dollywood Resorts?

Yes.  Save up to 20% per night at a Dollywood Resort during the Run Dollywood Race Weekend, April 19 - 30, 2026. Book by April 23, 2026. Blackout dates may apply. Reservations are limited.  You can make your reservations by visiting the link below, visiting Dollywood.com/RunDollywood, or by calling 1-800-DOLLYWOOD and asking for the 2026 Run Dollywood Race Weekend Offer.

·         Is there a discount for Season Passholders or Military ?

There are no discounts available at this time due to limited capacity for the inaugural event. 

·         Is transportation provided for Dollywood resort guests?

Yes. Complimentary Dollywood Resorts shuttle service is available for guests staying at HeartSong Lodge & Resort or DreamMore Resort and Spa. Shuttle registration is required upon hotel check-in.

·         What if I’m staying off property?

Guests staying elsewhere should arrange their own transportation. Participants and spectators will be allowed to park in the Dollywood Theme Park parking lot.

Tram service to Dollywood's Splash Country will be provided for those parking in the Dollywood Theme Park parking lot.

·         Will there be spectator areas?

Spectators are welcome in designated areas within Dollywood’s Splash Country parking lot. Access inside Dollywood Theme Park or Splash Country is not permitted during the race.

·         Costumes

Costumes are allowed at Run Dollywood events; however, they must be family-friendly and safe for all participants.

·         Costumes may not be obstructive, offensive, or unsafe.

·         No masks or facial coverings that conceal identity.

·         Costumes may not drag on the ground.

·         No real or simulated weapons or sharp objects.

·         Costumes must not restrict movement, impede the runner’s motion, or interfere with other participants.

·         Costumes must not block vision or create tripping hazards.

·         Participants who do not follow these guidelines may be refused entry or removed from the event unless their costume can be modified to meet these standards.

·         Can I use headphones?

Headphones and earbuds are permitted, though we recommend keeping volume low to hear announcements and on-course entertainment.

·         Do standard Dollywood Park Rules and Polices apply to race participants and spectators?

Yes. Dollywood Parks and Resort Rules and Polices are to be followed by all race participants and spectators. All Guests entering the Race area (Start/Finish/Recovery Area/Spectator area) will be security screened upon arrival. Please visit the link below for a full list of theme park policies and FAQ.

Run Dollywood races will take place rain or shine. However, the safety of our participants, volunteers, and spectators is our top priority.

·       In the event of lightning, severe weather, or unsafe conditions, the Run Dollywood Event Management Team, in consultation with local law enforcement and emergency services, may delay, modify, or cancel the race.

·       Delays may occur to allow weather to clear before resuming safely.

·       Course modifications may be made as necessary to ensure participant safety.

·       If the event is cancelled in its entirety due to severe weather or other circumstances beyond the control of the organizers, no refunds will be issued.

·       If the race is postponed or rescheduled to a new date, all entries will be automatically transferred to the new date and no refunds will be issued.

·       No refunds will be given for weather-related delays, partial cancellations, or early termination of the event once it has started.

·       Communication: All important race updates, including weather alerts or schedule changes, will be distributed through email and text message notifications. Participants are encouraged to opt in to race messaging alerts during registration and to check spam or junk folders to ensure they are receiving all official event communications.

• Full refunds (minus processing and fees) through Jan 1, 2026. No refunds will be offered after this date.
• No discounts will be offered for this race event due to limited capacity for this inaugural race.

Athletes with Disabilities will have a designated tent in the staging area to prepare for the race and store any personal accommodation items not required during participation. This tent will be staffed with race officials to assist with questions or needs.

All participants will start with their scheduled start group unless a request for adjustment is made and approved in advance by Run Dollywood officials.

Athletes with Disabilities may leave prosthetics, day chairs, and other mobility devices in the tent during the race. All items must be picked up within one hour of race conclusion.

For additional questions related to atheletes with disabilites or to request approval for below items, please email Dollywood Accessibility at dwaccessibility@dollywood.com.

Approved Devices

·         Canes, crutches, trekking poles, and walkers are permitted for use during the race.

·         To request approval for alternate devices, email Dollywood Accessibility at dwaccessibility@dollywood.com.

Service Animals

·         Service animals are permitted on course with prior approval from DW Accessibility.

·         To request approval, contact dwaccessibility@dollywood.com and present confirmation at race registration for access to the staging area and route.

Push Rim Wheelchairs

·         Customized racing wheelchairs (push rims) may be used by athletes with physical disabilities.

·         Participants must check in at the Athletes with Disabilities Tent, wear a safety helmet, be secured with a safety restraint, have front and rear lights, and pass an equipment safety check before starting.

Handcycles

·         Handcycles are three-wheel arm-powered racing devices used by athletes with physical disabilities.

·         Participants must check in at the Athletes with Disabilities Tent, wear a helmet and restraint, have lights, and pass a safety inspection prior to starting.

Human Guides and wheelchair pushers will not be issued official race bibs but are required to wear a designated companion bib and sign a waiver for approval to access the racecourse. Companion bibs and waivers must be completed and picked up during the official packet pick-up time.

Wheelchair Duo Teams

·        A Wheelchair Duo is a team of two, consisting of a runner or walker pushing a non-ambulatory person with a disability in a customized racing wheelchair.

·       Teams must check in at the Athletes with Disabilities Tent for a safety inspection prior to starting. The wheelchair participant must wear a helmet and be secured with restraints and lights. The pushing participant must use a tether connected to the chair.

·      The runner or walker pushing the wheelchair is not required to pay a race registration fee and will be allowed to participate without receiving a race bib.

Human Guides

·         Athletes who are blind, have low vision, are deaf or neurodivergent, or have another disability requiring navigation assistance may have one registered Human Guide.

·         Guides are for navigation and safety, providing visual or audio communication for the athlete throughout the event.

·       The Human Guide is not required to pay a race registration fee and will be allowed to participate without receiving a race bib.