If you’re visiting Dollywood this holiday season, don’t miss out on the Christmas Tasting Pass! During Smoky Mountain Christmas, you can sample up to five delicious holiday treats for one price. Think of festive bites like savory jambalaya, cozy soups, and sweet treats like red velvet funnel cake. And to keep things merry and bright, you can wash it all down with a Holiday Cranberry Punch!
How It Works
You can buy the Christmas Tasting Pass online, and when you get to the park, head to any food spot with a tasting menu item to activate it. They’ll scan your pass, give you a lanyard, and then you’re set to “pay” for items with just a quick scan as you taste your way through Dollywood. For $39.99 (or $36.99 if you’re a gold or diamond pass holder), it’s a great way to sample all the holiday flavors!
Red Velvet Funnel Cake
Dollywood’s funnel cakes are always a hit, but this seasonal twist takes it to the next level. This was the crowd favorite! Topped with cream cheese icing and whipped cream, this was an absolute 10/10. Not a crumb left behind! You can grab this holiday delight at Crossroads Funnel Cakes or Splinter’s Funnel Cakes in the park (see the park map). Crispy, fluffy, and oh so delicious—it’s a must-try treat.
Potato Soup
Since it was a chilly night, the warm soup hit the spot. It’s creamy, filling, and a kid-approved pick, though we’d probably try something different next time. You can find this comforting option at Iron Horse Pizza in the park.
Santa’s Skillet Potatoes
A pile of warm, crispy homemade potato chips, perfectly golden and lightly salted. They’re smothered in creamy, melted queso, sprinkled with cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh diced tomatoes, green onions, and a dash of sour cream. It’s comfort food taken to a whole new level! You can find this delicious creation at Potato Tornado.
Mint Chocolate Chip Milkshake
If you’re a fan of peppermint and chocolate, this milkshake is calling your name—we almost went back for seconds! It’s made with mint chocolate chip ice cream, topped with milk chocolate curls, a generous swirl of whipped cream, and bits of peppermint for that extra festive kick. Creamy, sweet, and totally indulgent, it’s the ultimate holiday treat. You can grab one at Showstreet Ice Cream, you won’t regret it!
Hot Cocoa Cupcake
This cupcake disappeared fast! It was moist, rich, and packed with chocolate flavor, topped with the perfect layer of frosting. The best part? It’s topped with both peppermint and chocolate fudge icing, giving it a taste that’ll remind you of cozy hot cocoa. You can find this delicious treat at Spotlight Bakery.
Christmas Tree Sugar Cookie
A fun, festive treat that the kids absolutely loved! These iced sugar cookies in holiday shapes are the perfect way to sweeten up any visit to Dollywood. You can find them at Spotlight Bakery at the front of the park.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie
The smooth, creamy richness of red velvet cookies filled with cream cheese icing makes for the sweetest holiday treat! Big enough to share and rich in flavor, this indulgent dessert was the perfect way to end our tasting tour. You can find it at Spotlight Bakery—a must-try.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Tasting Pass: To get the best bang for your buck, go for the heartier items like the turkey nachos, skillet potatoes or jambalaya, as these will fill you up more than some of the smaller desserts.
The Christmas Tasting Pass was a hit with our group—it’s perfect for tasting Dollywood’s holiday flavors. If you’re looking to add a little extra holiday cheer to your visit, grab a pass and enjoy a taste of the season! For more tasty suggestions available year-round, check out our blog on Dollywood’s must-try snack food.
