by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:45 AM ET, Wed August 26, 2026
Following beloved singer Dolly Parton’s passing on August 25, her music-themed entertainment park, Dollywood, is celebrating her life by remaining open and honoring her original intent for the park, while Nashville honors her with several tributes.
Dollywood’s official statement on Parton’s passing read, “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.
“Dolly’s heartfelt wish was that Dollywood always remain a place of joy, hope and togetherness—a space where families and friends could honor her memory, not with silence, but with laughter, music and shared dreams.”
With that said, Dollywood, which local Tennessee news station WVLT8 says became the largest employer in Sevier County after Parton purchased the former Silver Dollar City in 1986, will remain open on Wednesday, August 26, saying in part, “the show must go on.”
“The greatest privilege of my life has been helping Dolly bring her dreams to life at Dollywood,” said Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President. “Dolly’s heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds. She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply. While we grieve her loss, we are honored and committed to carry her light forward. Her legacy will continue to shine in every melody sung, every smile shared and every dream kindled within these gates.”
The statement also encouraged those impacted by Dolly Parton’s death to consider donating to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an organization dedicated to improving children’s literacy.
In Nashville this week, Nashville International Airport also honored Dolly, lighting up in pink to mark her passing. Local news station WKRN reported that a petition has been created to name Nashville International after the beloved icon, who made the city her home.
According to the BBC, Dolly fans visited her name at the Country Music Hall of Fame, paying homage with flowers, candles, and other small items. More tributes will likely appear across the city in the days and weeks ahead.
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