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All Dolly’d up
New twists and turns await at Dollywood this season. | Photo provided by Dollywood
Two weeks, y’all. That’s all that stands between us and opening day at Dollywood.
The park kicks off its 41st season on Friday, March 13 — and with a record-breaking coaster and new events galore, 2026 is set to be one for the books in the Smokies. Here’s what to expect.
🎢 NightFlight Expedition
Soar through the Smoky Mountains at night on this immersive indoor coaster that blends storytelling with thrills. With a price tag of over $50 million, it’s the largest single investment in park history. The ride is set to open this spring, and season passholders will get first dibs with an exclusive preview.
🍓 Fresh flavors
We’ll never skip the cinnamon bread, but this year’s new menu additions are enough to pique any foodie’s interest. Think Tex-Mex loaded fries, strawberry cupcakes, zesty BBQ-glazed corn strips, Southern fish and chips, and more.
Expect delays on I-75 South today as the Tennessee Department of Transportation conducts rolling roadblocks beginning at 1 p.m. See the full schedule before you hit the road. (WATE 6)
Health
In other Dolly Parton news,East Tennessee Children’s Hospital is entering a new era. Through a new partnership with the superstar, the pediatric system will now be known as Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. “I believe in this place, and I want to do my part to help,” Parton said. (Knoxville News Sentinel)
Civic
Brush collection for Knoxville residents begins on Monday, March 2. Brush up on need-to-know info + dos and don’ts.
Announced
WWE’s flagship show “Monday Night RAW” will be broadcast live from Knoxville’s Food City Center on Monday, May 11. Tickets go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. on March 6.
Coming Soon
Hope you’re hungry. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and Hawaiian Bros. Island Grill are coming to Kingston Pike. (Knoxville News Sentinel)
Watch
Keep an eye out for former Vols hooper Lew Evans on the new season of “The Bachelorette.” He’ll be competing alongside 21 other men for Taylor Frankie Paul’s final rose. The drama tips off Sunday, March 22 on ABC. (WATE 6)
Eat
Mexican street corn dip. Birria empanadas. Mesquite-grilled ribeye. Those are just a few of the items on Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina and Tequila Bar’s brand-new menu, which launches on Wednesday, March 4. A brunch buffet will debut shortly after. (Knoxville News Sentinel)
Beauty
See fewer grays on your hair and beard with a simple spray designed specifically for men: Particle Anti-Gray Serum. It’s effective without dye, coloring, or harsh chemicals. Save 20% off and get free shipping with discount code CITY20.*
Category
Biz
📚 End of story
McKay’s has operated in Knoxville since 1985. | Photo by Alan Kyker via Openverse
Knoxville is losing a legendary local spot.
McKay’s — the massive bookstore on Papermill Place Way — will permanently close after 40 years of buying and selling secondhand books, music, movies, collectibles, and more. Its final day of business is Sunday, May 3.
According to Knox County records, Turkey Creek Hospitality, a local developer that owns at least 10 hotels, purchased the store and its adjacent parking lot for $4.25 million.
“It has been an honor to be part of the Knoxville community for the last four decades,” the staff wrote in a statement. “If you bought, sold, or traded with us, you helped keep books and media on the shelves of people who appreciate it.”
The silver lining? McKay’s locations in Chattanooga and Nashville will remain open, so customers can still use trade credit and gift cards at other Tennessee stores. The company will also continue operating in North Carolina, where it was founded in 1974.
The Buy
It’s almost March — yay. But also, what should you wear? Here’s one complete outfit that can carry you through the sometimes chilly, sometimes temperate days of late winter, all under $150 while sales last:
It’s been a decade since I last visited Dollywood, but I hold the memories I made there with my grandparents so close. My personal favorite attraction is Dolly’s Tennessee Mountain Home, a charming replica of Parton’s childhood house.
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