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Dollywood Opens After Dolly Parton's Passing: 'The Show Must Go On'
In a tribute to the legendary singer, Dollywood resumes operations, embodying her spirit as fans flock to honour her legacy.
Dollywood, the iconic theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, briefly closed on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, after the announcement of Parton's death. However, in a statement reflecting her enduring legacy, the park announced that it would reopen on Wednesday, August 26, saying, "In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle - 'the show must go on.'"
The statement further emphasised that Dollywood aims to carry forward Parton's message of love, perseverance, and hope, urging guests to visit and honour her memory through joyful experiences.
On the day of the announcement, Dollywood's website faced overwhelming traffic, becoming inaccessible for over two hours as fans rushed to pay their respects. A message on the site acknowledged the high demand, expressing gratitude for visitors' patience. Soon after, the presentation of a heartfelt message featuring the words "I will always love you," from one of Parton's most beloved songs, was made available. Ticket sales resumed shortly after the site was updated.
The Dollywood team expressed their sorrow in a statement, saying, "With heavy hearts, the Dollywood family mourns the passing of our beloved Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton. Everyone at Dollywood shares the sorrow of countless people around the world touched by Dolly's warmth, wisdom and generous spirit." They highlighted Parton's wish for Dollywood to be a place of joy and togetherness, a sentiment that rings true in times of grief.
Parton was unable to attend the recent opening of Dollywood's highly anticipated NightFlight Expedition roller coaster, the park's most significant investment to date at $50 million. The ride remains closed until further adjustments are made for an optimal experience.
Dolly Parton first became involved with Dollywood in 1986 when she acquired an interest in the Silver Dollar City theme park, which was subsequently renamed Dollywood. The resort has since expanded to include several attractions, including a waterpark and a dinner theatre, making it the largest ticketed tourist destination in Tennessee.
Eugene Naughton, president of Dollywood Parks & Resorts, shared, "The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood. Dolly's heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds." He committed to ensuring that her legacy continues to inspire future generations and that her spirit remains alive within the park.
For those wishing to memorialise Parton, the Dollywood Company encouraged donations to the "imagination library," a charity close to her heart that provides free books to children.
As Dollywood continues to operate in her honour, the park stands as a testament to Dolly Parton's impact on so many lives, where laughter and music resonate within its gates, echoing her enduring spirit.