In 1966, Dolly Parton looked at Carl Dean and said, "Sail away with me" to Ringgold, GA, to get married.

To honor that moment, Ringgold Downtown Partners launched the official Dolly Days celebration in 2022 + the festival is set to return on Saturday, May 10 to the downtown square. Bonus: This festival also doubles as a running event with the Dolly Dash — let's get into the details.

Those interested in participating in the 1-Mile Fun Walk, 5K, 10K, or virtual run can register online. Packages will be available starting on Thursday, May 8 — but we recommend stopping by on Friday, May 9 for a pre-party from 4 to 7 p.m. with live music, shopping + a pickleball tournament.

Bonus: Get familiar with the new dash routes.

Saturday's celebration has a jam-packed schedule, so here are some of our must-dos.

12-1 p.m. | Carl Dean tribute with performances by the Jazz Freaks
1 p.m. | How to deal with a Jolene self-defense class
1-1:30 p.m. | Line dancing
2-3 p.m. | Dolly look-alike contest (it's time to bust out those blonde wigs)

You can also expect live music throughout the day, plenty of shopping + get tickets for a Brunch with "Dolly" at Ringgold Legacy Hall.