Pigeon Forge - September 2002 --- In honor of Deaf Awareness Week in late September, the Dollywood entertainment park is once again planning its annual Deaf Awareness Day for Sunday, September 22. The 2002 Deaf Awareness Day is the 10th anniversary of this special event, which features interpretation of Dollywood entertainment shows, attractions, and craft demonstrations.

Deaf Awareness Day activities at Dollywood begin at 10:00 a.m. when the park opens and will continue throughout the day. Guests can also enjoy a special morning church service presented in cooperation with the Deaf Ministry from the First Baptist Church of Knoxville.

Interpreters for Deaf Awareness Day at Dollywood are coordinated through the University of Tennessee's Educational Interpreting Program. In addition to interpreting the entertainment activities, interpreters will also be available throughout the park to assist hearing-impaired visitors at key park locations such as the turnstile area, information booths, and First Aid.

Dollywood has also planned a special Holiday Deaf Awareness Day for Sunday, December 1, so that deaf guests to Dollywood can enjoy all the activities of the entertainment park's Smoky Mountain Christmas festival. New at this year's Christmasfest is a nightly Parade of Lights and a brand new production show, A Dollywood Night Before Christmas.

For more information on Deaf Awareness Day at Dollywood, contact Dollywood Information at (865) 428-9488 or visit the park's website at www.dollywood.com.