Dolly Parton's Stampede
Trick riding in an indoor arena · A four-course dinner served at your seat
Dolly Parton's Stampede is Pigeon Forge's signature dinner show, pairing a four-course Southern feast with trick riding, comedy, music and friendly competition in a big indoor arena. It's been a Smoky Mountain tradition for decades and a classic family night out in town.
The Stampede sits right on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, a short drive from Dollywood, Gatlinburg and Sevierville, so it's easy to fit into any Smokies vacation.
The show
Horses and trick riders
The heart of the Stampede is its horses. A large herd of talented horses and skilled riders race and perform daring trick riding right in front of your seat.
Comedy and friendly competition
Friendly competition in the arena gets the whole crowd cheering, with plenty of comedy and audience fun along the way.
Music and a patriotic finale
Live entertainment and music run throughout the evening, building to a patriotic finale.
The feast
Dinner is served while the show unfolds. The four-course feast is built around the Stampede's signature whole rotisserie chicken and its creamy vegetable soup, with Southern sides and dessert. Eating with your hands is part of the fun, though a fork is provided if you prefer.
Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available on request, so mention any dietary needs when you book.
Before the show
The Horse Walk
Arrive early to stroll the Horse Walk and meet the horses before they take the arena.
Pre-show in the Saloon
The Saloon hosts pre-show entertainment with live bluegrass and country music, so getting there early is like seeing two shows in one night.
Christmas at the Stampede
During the holiday season, the Stampede becomes a Christmas dinner show with festive acts, a holiday feast and a live Nativity. Read our guide to what to expect at the Stampede Christmas show and see more Christmas shows in Pigeon Forge.
Who it's for
Families
Horses, comedy and a feast you can eat with your hands make the Stampede a hit with kids, parents and grandparents.
Groups
The Stampede hosts groups and events, which makes it a good pick for reunions, church trips and big family gatherings.
Dolly fans
Pair it with a day at Dollywood for a full Dolly Parton experience. Learn more about how Dolly Parton shaped Pigeon Forge.
Tips for your visit
Book ahead
Shows can fill up during peak vacation seasons and the holidays, so reserve your seats in advance.
Arrive early
Leave time for the Horse Walk and pre-show entertainment before you're seated.
Come hungry
The feast is generous, so skip the big lunch.
More shows in Pigeon Forge
Compare more options with our guide to Pigeon Forge shows and the best shows for your Pigeon Forge vacation. For another dinner show, try Pirates Voyage or Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, or catch a live music show at Country Tonite.
Plan your visit
Frequently asked questions
Where is Dolly Parton's Stampede?
At 3849 Parkway in Pigeon Forge, a short drive from Dollywood.
Is Dolly Parton's Stampede the same as the Dixie Stampede?
Yes. The show was known as Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede until 2018, when it was renamed Dolly Parton's Stampede.
What food is served at the Stampede?
A four-course Southern feast featuring a whole rotisserie chicken and creamy vegetable soup, with sides and dessert. Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available on request.
Do you eat without utensils at the Stampede?
Eating with your hands is part of the tradition, but a fork is provided if you'd like one.
Is Dolly Parton's Stampede in Gatlinburg?
No. The Stampede is on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, a short drive from Gatlinburg.
The Stampede is just minutes from our Pigeon Forge cabins and our cabins near Dollywood. Bring everyone to one of our family cabins or large cabins, and book direct to get our Stay & Play Pass with free attraction tickets for every paid night.