The sad news of Dolly Parton's death last week from cancer at the age of 80 is still sinking in for many. She was a glorious original whose songs will be one of her greatest legacies. Several top country stars have already been paying tribute to Parton by including her music in their concerts. One upcoming event that fans may want to have in mind early is Dollyfest. The occasion was announced by Parton's estate on August 31 via a press release from her team. It's scheduled for 2027 on two consecutive weekends in two places, Nashville and London.
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Billed as the "party of a lifetime," the music fest was originally planned for Nashville, It was supposed to occur in January 2026 on her 80th birthday with multiple artists and Dolly Parton as the host and performer. However, with her passing, the focus has shifted to be a two-continent, all-out celebration of her amazing career and songs.
Dates and ticket information have not been announced. The public can visit Dolly Parton's web site for additional details as they become available.
"Dollyfest Is What Dolly Would Do"
Danny Nozell, Dolly Parton's manager, explained the thinking behind this reimagined event. He said this in the press release. "What Dolly started, we will ensure is brought to life. Many people behind the scenes know that DOLLYFEST is a dream of Dolly's that was intended to take place on her 80th birthday in Nashville. We had the venue booked and we had the announcement ready to go. And then, in August 2025, Dolly had to take a step back after her initial health challenges. A lot of people always say, WWDD (What Would Dolly Do?), and well, at this moment, DOLLYFEST is WDWD (What Dolly Would Do!)."
Parton Herself "Dreamed up" Dollyfest
Nozell added that people are free to mark Dolly Parton's exceptional life in whatever way they deem appropriate. However, he also stated that "a traditional memorial" was not in keeping with the star's wishes. Nozell suggested that other tributes continue as planned, and then there will be DOLLYFEST, which she "dreamed up." Nozell mentioned that It promises to be "something that artists and fans around the world can participate in, while giving everyone time to grieve, and giving everyone time to plan."
