**Festival Honouring Dolly Parton Set for Nashville and London**
Dolly Parton's estate has announced the upcoming DollyFest, a festival dedicated to celebrating the life and legacy of the iconic singer-songwriter, who passed away on August 25, 2023, at the age of 80. The event is scheduled to take place in both Nashville, Tennessee, and London, England, across two consecutive weekends in 2027. Specific dates for the festival have yet to be revealed.
Originally envisioned by Parton herself, DollyFest aims to be a vibrant celebration rather than a traditional memorial service. The event is designed to embody the spirit of joy and creativity that Parton brought to her music and her fans. Following her passing, her estate expressed that DollyFest would serve as a fitting tribute to her legacy, allowing fans and artists alike to come together in celebration of her contributions to music and culture.
Danny Nozell, the festival organizer and CEO of CTK Enterprises, emphasized that the event aligns with Parton's wishes. He noted that she had previously planned a similar event for January 2026, which was ultimately cancelled due to health issues. "DOLLYFEST will be the party of a lifetime she wanted to share with the world," Nozell stated in a press release. He further explained that while the estate is not discouraging personal tributes to Parton, they believe a festival-style celebration is more in line with her vision.
Parton, a native of the Smoky Mountains, was not only a country music legend but also a philanthropist and businesswoman. Throughout her illustrious career, she sold over 100 million records and received numerous accolades, including 10 Grammy Awards. Some of her most beloved songs include "Coat of Many Colors," "Jolene," and "I Will Always Love You." Parton was known for her songwriting prowess and often described her craft as a form of therapy.
In the wake of her death, tributes have poured in from fans, celebrities, and public figures, all celebrating her impact on music and culture. Nozell remarked on the significance of the festival, stating, "A lot of people always say, WWDD (What Would Dolly Do?), and, well, at this moment, DOLLYFEST is WDWD (What Dolly Would Do!)."
The festival is expected to feature a star-studded lineup of artists and performers, reflecting the wide-ranging influence Parton had across genres and generations. Fans can anticipate a variety of activities, including live performances, storytelling sessions, and opportunities to engage with Parton's extensive body of work.
As the planning for DollyFest unfolds, the estate aims to create an experience that honors Parton's legacy while allowing fans to celebrate her life in a meaningful way. The event promises to be a heartfelt tribute that resonates with those who admired her artistry and spirit.
In addition to the festival, Parton's family held a private funeral service in Nashville, where she was laid to rest next to her late husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum. This intimate gathering was attended by close family members, reflecting Parton's preference for privacy during her final moments.
As excitement builds for DollyFest, fans and artists around the world are encouraged to prepare for what is expected to be a memorable celebration of one of music's most enduring icons. The festival not only aims to commemorate Parton's achievements but also to foster a sense of community among those who cherish her legacy.
Further details regarding the festival's lineup and ticketing will be announced in the coming months, as organizers work to create an event that truly embodies the spirit of Dolly Parton.