Are you dreaming of a Christmas vacation? Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa is the perfect place to stay if you plan to visit Dollywood and the Great Smoky Mountains during the holidays.

Every year during the Christmas season, as the hustle and bustle of preparations and celebrations take over, I look forward to carving out some time to get away for some rest and relaxation that will help me remember the true reason for the season. Dollywood’s resort has proven to be the perfect little haven for me to get into the holiday spirit!

There’s something about the traditional and classic Christmas decor that brings to mind sweet memories of visiting with friends. From the beaming smiles that greet you to the hot cider in the lobby, and from the welcoming fire pits to the festive atmosphere—this resort hasn’t neglected a single, jingle thing!

Speaking of the beautiful decor, some friends and I had the opportunity to sneak a peek behind the scenes as the “elves” worked their magic around the resort and to ask a few questions about it all. Here’s what I found out:

When does the Christmas decorating begin and how long does it take to complete?

This year, switching from Harvest to Christmas at the resort began Oct. 30. There is always a staging area that takes up three conference rooms as they unpack all the holly jolly. It was all completed by Nov. 6!

How many elves get to deck the halls, and where all actually gets “decked”?

The resort is decorated all the way from the entry gate and beyond. A team of six decorates inside and out, while another team covers the pool and sets up the Christmas tree light show. Yes, I said “light show,” and it’s spectacular! All of the common areas are decorated, and even the Dolly Parton Suite gets a special Christmas “makeover.”

How big is the biggest tree?

The biggest Christmas tree, located at the bottom of the grand staircase, is 25-feet tall – plus, it’s on a platform which makes it even taller.

What’s new?

This year, look for even more trees! Especially notice the trees in the elevator lobbies.

What is Dolly’s favorite decoration?

Anything with sparkle, of course!

When do the decorations come down, and how long does that process take?

It’s quicker to tear down than it is to set up, which is probably true at your house, too. They tear down after the Dollywood Christmas season—this year Smoky Mountain Christmas ends Jan. 4.

A few of my favorite things (that should be a song…) include the beautiful sounds of live music and carolers in the lobby, the humongous wreaths adorning the walls, doors, windows, and stair-rails, and of course watching the children visit with Santa and his elves to share their wish lists and have a photo made to capture the precious moments.

Oh, who am I kidding? I love visiting with Santa, myself! I had a very special experience with Santa at the resort one Christmas not so long ago that still brings a tear to my eye.

I hope all of your wishes come true this year, and I hope that they bring you to experience the beauty and magic of Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa during the Christmas season!