One of East Tennessee’s most popular attractions has announced an ambitious expansion that will open next year. 

At a special presentation from the celebrity theater in Dollywood Friday, Dolly Parton and Dollywood President Craig Ross announced a sprawling new expansion to the park called ‘Wildwood Grove’. 

Wildwood Grove is said to be inspired by Parton’s childhood in East Tennessee and draws on the natural beauty of the area. It will feature 11-themed attractions like Blackbear Trail, Hidden Hollow, Sycamore Swing and The Wildwood Tree which will host live performances, light displays and fireworks. 

“‘Wildwood Grove is so imaginative’, Parton said. ‘I remember when I was a kid and I used to pretend I had frogs and butterflies as my friends. Now, children of all ages really ride on the back of a bear and a take a ride on a dragonfly'”.

The park will feature a new suspended rollercoaster called ‘The Dragon Flier’. 

“It really represents our continued commitment to constantly be bringing inspiring and family-friendly experiences to life through world-class rides, attractions and shows”, said Ross.

Ross goes on to say Wildwood Grove cost more to build than the entire park when it opened. 

According to the announcement, Wildwood Grove will open 2019.