The Smoky Mountain Door

08/26/2026

08/26/2026

The City of Gatlinburg joins in mourning the passing of legendary country music and philanthropic icon Dolly Parton.

Dolly was adored by millions across the globe, but here in Sevier County and East Tennessee, she was something even more meaningful: she was one of our own.

Hailing from the mountains of Sevier County, where she was born and raised, Dolly carried the spirit of the Sevier County everywhere she went.

Dolly’s impact on Sevier County cannot be measured by economic investment alone. Her legacy is found in the opportunities she created for “My people” - in the families she helped rebuild their lives after the 2016 Chimney Tops 2 Wildfires; in the children who discovered a love of reading through the Imagination Library; in the generations of children who will have access to world-class health care through her investment in Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital.

Gatlinburg was proud to call Dolly a neighbor and fellow Sevier Countian. Our community is better because of her life, her generosity, and her unwavering love for “My people.”

On behalf of the City of Gatlinburg, we extend our deepest condolences to Dolly’s family, friends, colleagues, and the countless people whose lives she touched.

The world knew Dolly Parton as an icon. Gatlinburg was fortunate enough to know her as a neighbor. The impact of her life reached the world, but her heart never left the mountains of Sevier County.

08/26/2026

Statement from Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters and Mayor-Elect Bryan McCarter

Sevier County joins our community, our state, and people around the world in mourning the loss of Dolly Parton, a true Tennessee icon and one of our own.

Dolly’s impact on Sevier County reaches far beyond her remarkable career. She dedicated herself to making this community a better place, from helping lead the recovery and rebuilding efforts following the 2016 wildfires to her lasting commitment to the children and families of our region through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Her generosity, compassion, and love for the people of Sevier County have touched countless lives and will continue to do so for generations to come.

We are deeply grateful for all that Dolly gave to our community and for the way she carried the spirit of the Smokies with her wherever she went. Sevier County has lost a beloved friend, an extraordinary neighbor, and an icon whose legacy will forever be part of the story of our community.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Dolly’s family, friends, loved ones, and all those across Sevier County and around the world who are grieving this tremendous loss.

Mayor Larry Waters and Mayor-Elect Bryan McCarter have declared Wednesday, August 26, 2026, as a Day of Mourning in Sevier County in honor of Dolly Parton and her extraordinary life and service to our community.

Additionally, Mayor Waters, in conjunction with Mayor-Elect McCarter, has directed that the Sevier County flag be flown at half-staff until the day of interment in honor of Dolly.

08/11/2026

Right around the corner!

Head to Townsend on Saturday, August 15, for the Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival. From live entertainment and food trucks to tethered balloon rides (weather permitting), local vendors, a balloon glow, and a laser light show, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Looking for a 21+ experience? Check out the Sip TN Wine Experience while you're there! 🍷

📍Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival at the Townsend Visitors Center
🗓️ Aug 15
🔗 https://www.pigeonforge.com/event/gsm-hot-air-balloon-festival/
📸 Great Smoky Mountain Hot Air Balloon Festival

08/11/2026

Thanks for choosing The Smoky Mountain Door during your visits to the Smokies!!

06/09/2026

Have fun!

☀️ Smoky Mountain Summer Bucket List ☀️

How many of these have you checked off already? 👀

Save this post for your next summer adventure and tag someone you want to make memories with this season!

06/09/2026

Fun stuff going on in the area this month!

greatsmokymountainlife.com/

06/09/2026

Summer goes by quick!! Why not slow down in the mountains for a while?!

Grab one of the last few dates that are a available this summer!!

Hot tub, community fishing pond, fishing rods provided! Just bring the worms :)

www.additionaldoors.com

04/16/2026

Do not feed the bears! 🐻

It comes with consequences! 🚨👮🏼‍♀️

Beginning July 1, anyone across the state of Tennessee who is caught feeding a bear in a place where it is illegal could face criminal fines from the state.