The Dixie Stampede is a very popular dinner show attraction located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Branson, Missouri. It features a wild west-themed show with horse riding stunts, comedy acts, musical performances, and a four-course meal. Many families visit the Dixie Stampede, including those with toddlers, so a common question is whether this attraction is suitable and enjoyable for very young children.
What is the Dixie Stampede?
The Dixie Stampede is a Dolly Parton-themed dinner show attraction. It is a high-energy performance with horse stunts, live buffalo, pig races, comedy, music, and a four-course feast. The show aims to be entertaining for all ages. There are two separate theaters at each location, the North and South, where guests root for either the North or South side. The show lasts about two hours and has both pre-show and intermission entertainment. The menu consists of soup, biscuits, a whole rotisserie chicken, pork loin, corn on the cob, apple turnover, and unlimited beverages. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
Key Show Elements
- Elaborate horse riding stunts
- Racing pigs and chickens
- Singing and dancing
- Comedy and tricks
- A patriotic salute
- Buffalo run
- Four-course meal
Is the Dixie Stampede suitable for toddlers?
The Dixie Stampede can be suitable for toddlers between the ages of 2-4, but it depends on the individual child. Some key factors to consider include:
Length of show
At about two hours with an intermission, the show is quite long for a toddler’s attention span. Some toddlers may get restless or cranky sitting that long. Having small toys or books to occupy them during slow parts can help.
Noise level
The arena can get very loud during exciting parts of the show like the horse stunts or stampede. The loud noises may startle or frighten some young children. Again, having toys or books to distract them during the loudest sections can help.
Late night timing
The shows typically start between 6:00pm to 8:30pm. That is past many toddlers’ bedtimes so they may have trouble staying awake for the whole show or get overtired.
Food
The big four-course meal may be too much food for a toddler’s appetite. Skipping dishes or just ordering certain items may work better. The foods offered are not always toddler favorites either.
Crowd size
The theaters seat hundreds of people so it can get rather crowded and noisy. Shy or anxious toddlers may feel overwhelmed.
Adult humor
Some jokes may go over toddlers’ heads but there are plenty of silly stunts and physical comedy they can enjoy.
Tips for bringing toddlers
If you do want to bring your toddler to the Dixie Stampede, here are some tips to make it more enjoyable for them:
- Arrive early to get settled before the crowds.
- Request seating near an exit in case you need to step out with your child.
- Bring small toys, books, coloring items to keep them occupied.
- Pack snacks in case your child does not like the meal items.
- Use noise-cancelling headphones or ear plugs to muffle loud noises.
- Try to visit during a matinee show instead of evening.
- Limit sugary treats before the show so they don’t get hyperactive.
- Let your child pick North or South side to feel involved.
- Be prepared to step out if your child gets restless or upset.
- Talk up the fun horses, pigs, chickens to get them excited.
Preferred ages
In general, the Dixie Stampede may be better suited for slightly older children than toddlers:
- Ages 5+: Older children will understand the story plot, get the jokes, have the stamina for the length of show, and not get scared by loud noises.
- Ages 4-5: With preparation like snacks and toys, four and five-year-olds can potentially enjoy the experience but may need to step out occasionally if overwhelmed or tired.
- Under 4: Difficult to recommend for kids under four. The length, noise, and crowds make it very challenging for most toddlers to sit through the whole show.
Age Policies
The official age policy for the Dixie Stampede is:
- Children under 4 are free but must share adult’s meal.
- Children 4-11 years old are charged discounted child ticket price.
- Everyone 12 years and older pays adult ticket price.
So they do allow toddlers and babies. However, children under 4 will likely not get the full experience.
Pros for Toddlers
Potential advantages of the Dixie Stampede for toddlers:
- Seeing live horses and animals up close
- Noisy and active environment to burn energy
- Fun sounding songs to sing and dance along to
- Bright costumes and production
- Comedy and silliness
- Sampling new foods
- Souvenir cup for drink and popcorn to take home
Cons for Toddlers
Potential disadvantages of the Dixie Stampede for toddlers:
- Very lengthy show, past normal bedtime
- Crowded and noisy atmosphere
- Having to sit still for a long time
- Overstimulating lights, sounds, and action
- Food portion sizes too big
- Menu not always toddler friendly
- Comedy and story plot harder to follow
- Late night timing disrupts sleep schedule
Alternatives for Toddlers in Pigeon Forge
If you decide the Dixie Stampede may not be the best fit for your toddler, Pigeon Forge offers several other family-friendly attractions to consider instead including:
Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood has rides and attractions specially designed for small children. Their tamer roller coasters, kiddie play areas, shows, and experiences give toddlers plenty to enjoy at their own pace.
Titanic Museum
The engaging Titanic Museum lets kids explore reconstructed ship rooms, touch real ice, and play on the Grand Staircase. They offer toddler tickets and have exhibits for younger children.
Parrot Mountain
This tropical bird garden allows kids to interact with exotic parrots from around the world. Toddlers can see the parrots up close and learn about them from trainers.
Magic Beyond Belief Darren Romeo Magic Show
Darren Romeo’s family magic show at the Smoky Mountain Opry is very toddler friendly. It’s shorter, incorporates upbeat music, engaging illusions, and minimal scare factors.
Outdoor Activities
Pigeon Forge offers many outdoor activities perfect for toddlers to burn energy like hiking trails, river tubing, mini golf courses, splash pads, and playgrounds.
Conclusion
The lively Dixie Stampede dinner show can be entertaining for toddlers between ages 2-4. However, the length, noise, crowds, late timing, and mediocre food may make it difficult for many toddlers to enjoy the full experience. Kids over age 5 are better able to appreciate the event. With preparation and adjusting expectations, some toddlers will have a fun time. However, other Pigeon Forge attractions like Dollywood or outdoor activities may be a better bet for many very young children.