CARLSBAD, Calif — Tis the season for fa-la-la-la-LEGO fun! LEGOLAND California Resort’s Holidays event is turning Carlsbad, CA, into an “elf extravaganza” this festive season. Elves are using festive décor, twinkling lights, garland and even falling snow for the Holidays kicking off Nov. 23 and running select days through Jan. 5.  All festivities are included with general Park admission and select annual passes.

This year, Santa’s zaniest helpers have taken over Imagination Zone and transformed it into an elf extravaganza. Guests can immerse themselves in the holiday spirit by training to become an elf at the new Elf Training Academy, taking “elfies” with the all-new LEGO elf characters, Ivy and Frode, or mastering their jolly good dance moves at the new Holly Hype Dance Party. And don’t miss the North Pole Postal Service where guests can mail letters to Santa by dropping them in a special mailbox, where eager elves will ensure they make their way to the North Pole.

The elf fun continues as you stroll through the Park where you’ll be greeted by the iconic three-story-tall twinkling LEGO Christmas tree built out of more than 364,481 LEGO and DUPLO bricks. Capture core memories with Christmas card photos in front of the larger-than-life LEGO wreath, sample sweet treats with a holiday twist, and get a head start on holiday shopping at The Big Shop. Explore festivities, including:

• Holiday Fireworks: Watch the elves light up the sky with an end-of-day festive fireworks show on Saturdays in December and Dec. 21 through 30.
• Holly Hype Dance Party: Join Reindeer Girl and jump, prance and boogie down in this interactive holiday dance party!
• Brickmas Greetings: Meet and greet with our LEGO Toy Soldier, sing along with Toy Soldier’s Marching Band, and get some holiday shopping in at The Big Shop.
• Meet LEGO Santa and Friends: Your favorite holiday LEGO characters are back and ready for holiday hugs, pictures, and selfies. Meet friends including LEGO Snowman, Reindeer Girl, Gingerbread Man, Toy Soldier and new elf characters, Ivy and Frode. Plus, T-Rex Guy has dressed up for the season and is bringing the holiday spirit inside the Resort’s newest land, Dino Valley!
• Jingle Jamboree: Celebrate the holidays with the final show of the day and see favorite LEGO Holiday characters sing and dance to merry tunes.

After the Christmastime celebrations, ring in the New Year on Dec. 31 with dazzling fireworks, delicious treats, festive entertainment, and more at this year’s Kids’ New Year’s Eve. Countdown to LEGOLAND California’s version of midnight (which is a kid-approved 7 p.m.), with fireworks and special 3D glasses that turn the bursts into LEGO bricks!

LEGOLAND believes awesome is for everyone! To ensure every visitor has a fun Holidays experience, all LEGOLAND Resorts in North America are Certified Autism Centers after working with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to train and certify staff in sensory, environmental, and emotional awareness – ensuring families can build a bricktastic vacation and make unforgettable memories.

The second weekend of Gardaland Magic Halloween is about to arrive: the eagerly awaited autumnal appointment at Gardaland Resort which, until 3 November, will liven up the Park with frighteningly fun days for families and more intense and dark experiences for young adults, by way of “WRECKAGE – The Horror Experience” and Scary Fridays, the first of which starts on Friday, 11 October.

“For Gardaland, entertainment is a top priority”, explainsSabrina de Carvalho, Managing Director of Gardaland. “For our visitors, in fact, fun also comes from the entertainment: from Street Performances to shows, from stage events to live music, right up to food & beverage experiences. These are emotionally engaging events that ignite the joy of coming to the Park, to share carefree moments with family or friends through captivating experiences.”

This year, Gardaland Resort (as always, attentive to the needs of its visitors) has created new immersive experiences, designed to offer fun tailored to different age groups and needs. Visitors will be involved at every turn, rendering them the protagonists of unique moments that will transform a visit to the Park into an unforgettable memory.

During the opening days, families will be received at the park with ‘Welcome to Halloween’, the updated and improved opening show featuring friendly and colourful skeletons. Along the park’s avenues, families with children will be able to experience an adventure amidst sets and performances that combine the right dash of fear and lots of fun, where a huge backdrop of vampires, pumpkins, ghosts and bats will bring a smile to their faces… with a shiver of joy! There will also be Meet & Greet and chill-thrill Street Performances, including a spectacular Dragon that enchants young and old alike, and the Monster Band, the funniest noir band ever, ready to bring smiles to visitors’ faces with their dark humour.

Many Halloween-themed shows will provide guests with moments of great entertainment and unforgettable thrills. At Gardaland Theatre – with live music, acrobatics, dance and amazing choreographies – the new show “ANUBIS” will be on stage: a gripping story set in the Egyptian afterlife, in which the powerful god Anubis threatens the peace of the souls which reside there. Visitors can immerse themselves in the dark atmospheres of the English Village with “Il lamento degli abissi“, a show of dancing, singing, acrobatics and spectacular costumes, in which a crew of pirates is taken hostage by the singing of evil Sirens. For our youngest visitors, on the other hand, there is “Vlad in Love”, at the Teatro della Fantasia, in which Count Vlad will try to win his beloved’s heart with surprising magic.  Meanwhile, at the 4D cinema on Saturday 12 October, it’s time for the debut of “Dracula 4D”: the new short film, specially made for 4D viewing, is full of suspense as a young teenager and his father accidentally awaken the vampire Dracula. With special effects and motion seats, the audience are sure to be watching with bated breath throughout the entire film. Will Kevin and his father manage to escape Count Dracula’s fangs?

One of the most eagerly awaited novelties of the season is ‘WRECKAGE – The Horror Experience’, an unprecedented tunnel attraction that promises a highly immersive experience (additional ticket necessary) designed for thrill-seeking guests over the age of 14. Set in a space station that has disastrously crashed to Earth, WRECKAGE is one of the most immersive and unsettling experiences ever created at Gardaland: the daredevils who are bold enough to enter it will find a macabre surprise awaiting them around every corner of the labyrinth, ready to test their nerves.

But what would Halloween be without… treats? Plenty of themed sweets and cocktails will be available at the various refreshment points in the Park. This year, too, the little ones will be able to try their hand at Trick or Treat, the sweetie-hunting trail that is a typical Halloween tradition.

Every weekendas the park closes, the much-loved mascot Prezzemolo will be the star of ‘Zenda Cuoredipietra‘ in Piazza Jumanji. Between songs and spectacular dance routines, Prezzemolo must intervene to save Gardaland from one of the Witch Zenda’s mischievous spells… an unforgettable finale for young and old alike!

Guests in search of more intense emotions can enjoy the experience of Scary Fridays – scheduled from 11 October, from 5pm to 10pm – special evenings when every corner of the Park will be invaded by horror atmospheres, transforming it into a spooky universe populated by creepy creatures and scary scenarios, perfect for those who love intense sensations!

Not to be missed on these evenings are the Scary Zones: two enclosed zombie-infested areas that will test the mettle of all those who decide to set foot inside. The experience will be intense, but always in the spirit of fun that characterises Gardaland Magic Halloween.

The Scary Fridays experiences don’t end there: in fact, every Friday, visitors will be able to rock out in Piazza Jumanji to the rhythm of the scary music of DJ Eros and his Scary DJ Sets, a mix of spooky sounds and overwhelming rhythms that will transform the square into a thrilling outdoor disco. It will be the perfect after-party to end an evening full of spooky experiences in style.

Grand finale for Gardaland Magic Halloween on 31 October, when Piazza Jumanji will be transformed into a huge dance floor for the Halloween Party. Until late at night, the square will host DJ sets with exclusive guests, ready to get all visitors rocking out to an event that rounds off the most frighteningly fun month of the year, with an explosion of music, dancing and ‘horror’ atmospheres.

ORLANDO, Fla. — As we monitor that our team members are out of harm’s way with the passing of Hurricane Milton, we share our heartfelt condolences for everyone who has been impacted by this storm. We continue to lift up our Central Florida neighbors, guests and visitors in our prayers as our beloved Sunshine State reemerges from the recent storm. Fun Spot America Orlando and Kissimmee theme parks are reopening Thursday, October 10^th at 3:00 pm.

“We’ll be opening in a hybrid format, with most rides and attractions ready for you to enjoy.” said John Arie, Jr., owner and CEO of Fun Spot America Theme Parks. “The majority of our food stands will be open to serve family favorites.” “We hope you’ll join us to make some warm memories during this tim.”

We invite you to visit our website, www.fun-spot.com for more details.

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood unwraps holiday magic with exciting themed festivities taking place throughout the theme park, including a colorful holiday overlay at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™ and the return of family favorites, “Grinchmas™” and “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.™” Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood is included in the price of admission and starts on Friday, November 29, 2024, running daily through Monday, January 6, 2025.

SUPER NINTENDO WORLD will welcome guests to celebrate the holidays in the Mushroom Kingdom alongside Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach and Toad. A tree adorned with a Super Star topper, festive wreath and two snowmen—one donning a red Mario hat and scarf and the other a green Luigi hat and scarf—will greet guests for a memorable photo op.

Once inside the Mushroom Kingdom, the spirit of the holidays will shine bright with themed décor. Plus, for the first time ever, guests will be able to enjoy an array of holiday merchandise at select SUPER NINTENDO WORLD retail locations and seasonal treats at Toadstool Cafe. 

Universal Plaza, located at the heart of Universal Studios Hollywood, brings its centerpieceWho-holiday festivities to life with the spirited “Grinchmas” Who-bilation. Who-cheer and Who-fun will come to life in the whimsically vibrant town of Who-ville, complete with colorful décor, lively entertainment and festive activities.

The sensational Who-inspired doo-wop singing quartet makes a grand return, bringing their legendary sounds and Who-liday cheer. With their infectious rhythms and lively performances, this fabulous quartet will sway Whos and guests alike as they croon to toe-tapping renditions of beloved Who-liday classics. 

A towering 65-foot-tall Grinchmas tree will stand whimsically at the heart of Who-ville, adorned with hundreds of vibrant ornaments and thousands of shimmering LED lights. This signature, topsy-turvy marvel will create a captivating focal point for the festivities as nightly tree-lighting ceremonies accompanied by a burst of cascading snow mark the evening. 

Grinchmas activities will include photo opportunities with the Grinch™ and his faithful dog Max, story time with Cindy-Lou Who, who shares the story of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” with guests young and old, and a visit to the Who-ville post office to mail a joyous postcard sharing three good deeds. 

A themed craft area will provide guests the chance to add holiday cheer to a paper ornament which they can hang on a nearby Grinchmas tree or take home as a holiday souvenir for their own Christmas tree. A selection of themed Who-tacular sweet treats and Grinchmas gear will also be available for purchase.

Hogsmeade™ village rings in “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,” with jubilant décor of twinkling lights, magical garlands and cheerful wreaths. The Frog Choir’s traditional holiday a cappella performances will resonate with joy, as visiting witches and wizards wander through the village shops in search of enchanting gifts and exclusive keepsake items. A stroll through Hogsmeade wouldn’t be complete without a cup of Butterbeer™ that guests can enjoy in a choice of hot, cold or frozen or the chance to indulge in seasonal holiday fare at Three Broomsticks.™

As twilight settles each evening, “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts™ Castle” will illuminate a mesmerizing light projection show that bathes Hogwarts™ School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in a spellbinding display of color and radiance. The majestic castle will become a canvas of enchanting imagery, bringing to life the magic of the season. Accompanied by a captivating medley of music from the Harry Potter film series, this immersive experience will infuse the air with a symphony of festive sounds, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

The holiday celebrations extend to Universal CityWalk Hollywood, as the iconic outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex steps into the spirit and decks the halls with festive décor and a towering 40-foot-tall Christmas tree, adorned with over 200,000 sparkling LED lights. The excitement continues at 5 Towers with live bands, DJ performances and street performers bringing lively music and joyful rhythms to CityWalk on select nights, ensuring that the holiday spirit shines brightly throughout the season. Admission to Universal CityWalk is free.

GRAPEVINE, Texas — Meow Wolf is taking its immersive art experiences to a whole new level by adding an exciting dimension: learning. Through their new education guides, you can explore, discover, and engage in ways you’ve never imagined. Meow Wolf announced it has released learning guides that offer an insightful approach to engaging with their multisensory exhibitions through the lenses of environmental, life, and computer science. These guides are available to everyone for free.

Meow Wolf exhibitions have offered a portal to the surreal, with visitors journeying through alien planets, unraveling hidden stories, and discovering wonders that spark inspiration and awe. With the introduction of these learning guides, the experience can become even more enriching for school age children and anyone looking to deepen their experience. The launch of Meow Wolf Education deepens our commitment to learning and discovery, offering new ways for students to engage with our immersive spaces and empowering educators to bring the magic of Meow Wolf into the classroom.

“Meow Wolf Education uncovers a new depth of significance and learning in our artistry. Deeper meaning and real world insights are revealed in the guides and activities,” says Julie Heinrich, Chief Impact Officer. “With a focus on art and science, the learning guides also help students better understand jobs that exist in their communities, whether creative industries like ours, or careers in science, technology, and computing. We’re taking mind expansion to a whole new level!”

Each guide includes pre-visit materials to help learners prepare for their trip, and post-visit activities that encourage deeper exploration of Meow Wolf’s unique blend of art and science. The guides are aligned with state educational standards, making them a valuable tool for teachers and homeschooling families. They are organized by age group and flexible enough to be used for a wide range of learning styles and needs.

The guides cover everything from environmental science in vibrant ecosystems to storytelling techniques through art. In addition, the guides introduce students to the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) careers behind Meow Wolf’s exhibitions, featuring stories and insights from the creative and technical teams who bring the immersive experiences to life.

“Our team at Meow Wolf Grapevine recognizes that field trips can ignite a student’s creativity and imagination. We are committed to providing immersive, fun, and educational experiences that fuel a student’s curiosity, deepen their learning experience, and create lifelong fans of art.” said Meow Wolf Grapevine General Manager Kelly Schwartz.

By launching this new education program, Meow Wolf invites students to experience art not just as spectators but as active participants in the learning process. The goal is to spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking—skills that are essential for the next generation.

VANCOUVER, Canada – At the World Waterpark Association Show in Las Vegas, USA, WhiteWater received Leading Edge Awards for outstanding work in five projects:

• Meryal Waterpark
• The Rise of Icarus at Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park
• Wilderness at the Smokies
• Aquascope
• Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Breaking Records While Blending History with Today: Meryal Waterpark
Spread over 60 acres, Meryal Waterpark in Lusail impresses with 69 attractions that satisfy all types of guests—from aquatic play for young children to high-thrill water slides for the daring—all in an intricate setting that pays homage to Qatar’s oil and gas heritage. Making the biggest headlines here is the Icon Tower. Truly a feat of engineering, it is the world’ tallest water slide tower at 85 meters (278 feet) and launches a record-breaking 12 slides. Other remarkable attractions include three Abyss funnel slides, one of which is suspended 40 meters (131 feet) in the air, the Middle East’s first Walhalla—the fastest six-person raft ride in the world at up to 50 km/h (31 mph)—and the Middle East’s first SlideWheel®.

America’s Tallest Water Slide Tower: The Rise of Icarus
Having unveiled the first SlideWheel in the Western Hemisphere in 2022, Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park continued in 2024 with another innovative endeavour: the tallest water slide tower in the Americas—The Rise of Icarus. A sight that dominates the skyline in Wisconsin Dells, it soars 160 feet (48 meters) into the air and is themed with vibrant colours that reflect the story of a young man who flew too close to the sun and fell. Aptly named “The Fall,” the tallest water slide in America is a High-Speed AquaTube launching from 145 feet (44 meters) above ground, through a length of 780 feet (237 meters), at speeds of up to 30 mph (48 km/h). Four more body slides on the tower provide a mix of smooth yet thrilling ride experiences.

World’s First Reverse AquaLucent Slide at Wilderness at the Smokies
For its 15th anniversary, Wilderness at the Smokies in Sevierville, Tennessee, celebrated with a 40,000-ft2 (3,716-m2) expansion of its Wild WaterDome. One of the major highlights was the opening of “Ridge Runner,” a three-story Master Blaster featuring the world’s first Reverse AquaLucent effects—colourful spellbinding patterns on translucent flumes. In addition to the exhilaration of uphill blasts and heart-pounding drops at speeds of up to 29 mph (46 km/h), the Reverse AquaLucents have the riders mesmerized while giving the onlookers an opportunity to share the excitement, adding to the energy of the park.

Kids’ Area at Aquascope, Europe’s First Aquatic Cinema
An extraordinary immersive experience, Futurocope in France opened a new water park this year called, “Aquascope,” featuring Europe’s first aquatic cinema. Delighting the little ones with an underwater theme is “La Faille de Kraki,” a kids’ zone with a friendly octopus whose tentacles have transformed into slides. Complete with AquaSplash and AquaSpray Toys, it’s an area that piques the imagination of children.

A Cruise Ship Staple: FlowRider® on Board Icon of the Seas
Since the first FlowRider was sold to Royal Caribbean in 2006, the most recognizable name in stationary surf has been expected by guests ever since, and Icon of the Seas—the biggest cruise ship in the world—was no exception. With 24 FlowRider Doubles on 20 Royal Caribbean ships providing both active fun and spectator appeal, WhiteWater is proud to remain a trusted supplier for future ships.

“It’s an absolute privilege to be able to work with these ambitious clients,” said Onno Meeter, WhiteWater’s President, Water Parks. “Our teams thrive on challenges such as those that these award-winning projects presented. Groundbreaking parks like Meryal give us the opportunity to find innovative solutions that drive the attractions industry forward.”

“The Leading Edge Awards showcase the collaboration of suppliers, designers and clients to create these exceptional projects,” added Doug Smith, Global Head of Sales. “They are located in different corners of the world and vary in size and scope, yet they all show a very high level of creativity and dedication. Congratulations to all the teams!”

Previous Leading Edge Awards
In recent years, WhiteWater is proud to have won the following Leading Edge Awards:

• Studio City Water Park, indoor, Macau SAR, China (2023)
• Island Waterpark at Showboat Hotel, Atlantic City, New Jersey (2023)
• Pirate Cove Aquapark on board MSC Seascape (2023)
• Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China (2022)
• Aqua Nick at Nickelodeon™ Hotels & Resorts Riviera Maya, Cancun, Mexico (2022)
• Wild Rivers, Irvine, California (2022)
• Baha Bay at Baha Mar, Nassau, The Bahamas (2022)
• Studio City Water Park, outdoor, Macau SAR, China (2021)
• “Tsunami Surge” Master Blaster at Hurricane Harbor Chicago, Gurnee, Illinois (2021)
• Parallel Pursuit at Nocatee Spray Park, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida (2021)
• “Turbo Shuttle” Orbiter water slide at Adventure Bay, OCT FABLAND, Xiangyang, China (2020)
• “Perfect Storm” slide complex on board Royal Caribbean Navigator of the Seas (2020)
• Jungala Aqua Experience at Vidanta Riviera Maya, Mexico (2020)
• Island H2O Water Park, Kissimmee, Florida (2019)

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Riding high on the success of her latest hit single Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido, and a year filled with groundbreaking achievements, Karol G has revealed two wax figures, one for Merlin Entertainments’ Madame Tussauds New York and the other for Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. This dual honor further solidifies her as a powerhouse in the music industry and a cultural icon who continues to redefine Latin music on the global stage. Now, her superstar status has been immortalized by the world-famous wax museum. 

Just weeks after her show-stopping performance at the VMAs and fresh off recent Latin GRAMMY nominations, the reveal featured Karol G standing side by side with her wax twins at Madame Tussauds New York. The figure, which will remain in Times Square, captures the look of her vibrant Coachella 2022 performance with her signature blue hair and a look that reflects the lively spirit of her Colombian roots. 

The second figure, which will head to Las Vegas, pays homage to her collaboration with Shakira from their hit music video TQG featuring her striking red hair and the bold style that has become synonymous with her presence in Latin music. Karol G wore a Blumarine dress and boots, paired with Jacob & Co. jewelry. The artist marveled at the lifelike detail and artistry that went into the creation of the figures.

“My first impression was I love my smile, and the color of my eyes,” said Karol G. “I hope when my fans meet the figures that it’s a manifestation for them that one day they will meet me.” 

Karol G, born Carolina Giraldo Navarro in Medellín, Colombia, has steadily climbed to the pinnacle of the music industry, breaking barriers and setting records along the way. From being the first woman to top the Billboard 200 chart with a Spanish-language album to winning Best Música Urbana Album at the 2024 GRAMMYs, her impact is undeniable. In 2024, she was celebrated as Billboard’s Woman of the Year, both at their Latin Women in Music event and in their annual awards, further solidifying her status as one of the most influential Latina artists of her generation. Her journey from Medellín to global stardom is a reflection of her talent, determination, and the indelible mark she has made on the world of music.

“Karol G is one of our generation’s greatest living Latina performers,” said Marketing Manager at Madame Tussauds New York Eliza Rose. “Her figure is a beautiful addition to our museums, and a testament to her talent, influence, and the love her fans have for her.” 

Madame Tussauds, known for its incredible artistry and attention to detail, has once again brought to life the essence of a cultural icon. Karol G’s figures will offer fans an opportunity to experience up close the energy, style, and charisma that made her a superstar. Karol G’s figure will be featured in Madame Tussauds New York starting today, and her Madame Tussauds Las Vegas figure will land at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas by the end of October. 

ORLANDO, Fla. — Fun Spot America Theme Parks, Central Florida’s favorite destination for safe, clean, fun announces as Hurricane Milton draws closer to Central Florida, Fun Spot America Orlando and Kissimmee theme parks will be closed Wednesday, October 9^th and Thursday, October 10^th.

It is from an abundance of caution and safety for our park guests and employees that we make this announcement. Our hearts and prayers go out to everyone who may encounter hardship from Hurricane Milton. Please stay safe and protect your family during this difficult time. We will post any updates to this message on our social media channels and website, www.fun-spot.com.

COHOES, N.Y. — WaveTek, a global leader in wave system technology and design, proudly unveils a new logo to reflect its commitment to innovation, creativity, performance, and excitement in wave-based experiences. This new look pays homage to WaveTek’s 50+ years of experience in crafting world-class wave systems while embracing the dynamic nature of water motion, representing movement, excitement, and innovation. 

Designed to embody the essence of fluid motion, the new logo captures the core of what WaveTek stands for: crafting the highest quality wave systems for aquatic attractions around the world. From recreational wave pools to surf pools to specialty wave systems and more, WaveTek continues to push boundaries in technological advancements, setting the industry standard in wave system design.  

“WaveTek has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technology, solutions based engineering, and superior wave performance. Our new logo reflects that heritage while also showcasing our forward-thinking vision,” said Bruce Quay, CEO at WaveTek. “It’s not just about waves; it’s about movement, excitement, and creating the most fun and immersive experiences possible.” 

Over the past five decades, WaveTek has revolutionized wave technology with a series of industry firsts, including the introduction of 6-foot parallel waves, patented variable wave technology, and tsunami solitary wave technology. With more than 550 wave pools and specialty wave systems to their credit, WaveTek’s innovations have paved the way for countless unforgettable aquatic experiences. 

As part of Aquatic Development Group (ADG), WaveTek’s commitment to advancing the wave industry remains as strong as ever.  The logo marks a new chapter for WaveTek as the company continues to explore new advancements in wave technology while maintaining the high standards that have defined the brand for decades. The new look embodies the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, making a bold statement about where the company is headed and its continued influence on the future of wave-based attractions. 

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dolly Parton, along with officials from Dollywood Parks & Resorts, The Dollywood Foundation, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Pirates Voyage and Walmart, announced significant donations to flood relief during a special event Friday afternoon at Walmart #678 in Newport, Tennessee. The location has helped the local community by offering meals, as well as showers and laundryfacilities to those affected by the unprecedented flooding from Hurricane Helene.

As communities across the Appalachian region continue the daunting cleanup efforts, Dolly announced a $1 million donation to the Mountain Ways Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) dedicated to providing immediate assistance to Hurricane Helene flood victims. In addition, Dolly’s East Tennessee businesses—Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show—as well as The Dollywood Foundation are combining efforts and have pledged to match her donation to Mountain Ways with a $1 million contribution of their own.

The donations help jumpstart the efforts of Mountain Ways to provide essential financial resources directly and efficiently to the most affected areas. Mountain Ways also will coordinate other relief efforts, including distributing food, water and other necessary supplies.

“These are special people here; they’re my people,” Dolly explained. “I feel like all people are my people, but everyone here grew up in the mountains just like I did so of course I have a close connection to them. I can’t stand to see anyone hurting, so I wanted to do what I could to help after these terrible floods. I hope we can all be a little bit of light in the world for our friends, our neighbors—even strangers—during this dark time they are experiencing.

“I’m also appreciative that all my East Tennessee businesses and the folks at Walmart are contributing to flood relief. This money will certainly help a lot of people, but there is still so much more this area needs. I hope we’ll see more people make donations or volunteer because the people here need so much right now.”

During the event, Walmart U.S. President and CEO John Furner announced the company, including Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation, would increase their commitment and donate a total of $10 million to hurricane relief efforts across the affected states. 

“One of the things we love most about Dolly as a partner is her incredible heart and care for her community,” said Furner. “She reminds me of our associates who are always the first to jump to action when our communities need us. This time is no different, and we will continue to provide support until they have recovered.”

Dollywood already has worked with its sponsorship partner Coca-Cola to donate a semi-truck full of water for distribution in Cocke County, Tennessee. Additionally, Dollywood also has donated 60,000 reusable masks, 30,000 disposable protective garments and 2.5 million disposable masks to be used for cleanup efforts across East Tennessee. They also have donated disposable serving ware and utensils for thousands of meals being distributed by Mountain Ways. 

In conjunction with donation centers established by the city of Pigeon Forge, Dollywood theme park also will become a donation drop-off location for those wishing to provide items for the cleanup. Items needed include buckets with lids, tarps, shovels, rakes, trash bags, work gloves, masks, cleaning wipes, diapers, baby formula and food, can openers, first aid supplies, personal hygiene items, kitty litter, new socks and underwear, clean towels and blankets, laundry detergent, pet food and hand sanitizer. Items may be donated at the designated drop-off point at the front gate area of the park.

Dollywood Parks & Resorts officials encourage those with the capability to donate or to volunteer. Mountain Ways is working with local nonprofits and governmental officials to ensure the donated funds and resources reach affected communities across the region. Monetary donations can be made by visiting the Mountain Ways Foundation website, mountainwaystn.org.

“This beautiful region which we all love so much has an extreme challenge ahead of it,” said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President. “And while it may be quite daunting right now, we know the spirit of the people in this region will help them overcome what faces them in the days ahead. We want to encourage others to donate or to volunteer in any way they can to help their neighbors and communities recover from this difficult time.

“Dollywood’s share of the donation from our ‘Love Shares’ program helps Mountain Ways get started in providing immediate assistance where needed. As local leaders are able to better assess their communities in the coming weeks, we will determine additional ways we can assist in the recovery effort.”