Dollywood, Dolly Parton‘s beloved theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, will be open tomorrow following today’s previously scheduled closing.
In a lengthy statement – read it below – the park’s executives said, “In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle — ‘the show must go on.’ Together, we honor her by carrying forward her message of love, perseverance, and hope.”
Parton’s death at 80 today has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes. The country music icon passed away in Nashville following months of health challenges. Just 10 days ago she canceled an appearance at Dollywood to dedicate its new NightFlight Expedition ride, telling fans in a video message, “Now, I’ve told you before, all my fans, that I’ve had a few little health issues. And sometimes, I get a little dizzy and I get dehydrated, and I’m dehydrated. And so, my Nashville doctor has kinda clipped my wings, saying, ‘You ain’t traveling this week.’ So I guess, if your doctor tells you, ‘you ain’t traveling this week,’ you ain’t traveling this week. But I like to keep all of you in the loop, like I said I would, on everything.”
In its statement today, Dollywood said, “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,” the statement continues, “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.”
Eugene Naughton, Dollywood Parks & Resorts President, added, “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. 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.”
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