Dolly Parton’s estate has announced that a two-day festival, dubbed Dollyfest, will be held next year in Nashville and London to celebrate the iconic country singer’s life and career. This festival replaces a traditional memorial service, which Parton herself did not want.
"We are not discouraging people from celebrating Dolly in the ways they choose," said Danny Nozell, Parton’s longtime manager. "However, as far as a traditional memorial goes, that is not something Dolly wanted."
Nozell explained that the festival concept was “truly dreamed up by Dolly” and is authentic to her. He added that it allows fans and artists worldwide to participate while giving everyone time to grieve and plan. The estate stated that the festival will take on a new meaning following Parton's death last week at age 80, serving as a "global double-day, double-weekend, double-continent party of a lifetime" to celebrate her 60-year career.
Dollyfest was originally planned for January and was set to feature performances from Parton and other artists. However, it was canceled when Parton began facing health challenges in late 2025. Her representatives confirmed to People that prior to her death, she had been diagnosed with cancer.
Parton's family held a private funeral on Friday, as she had requested. Her representative suggested that those wishing to pay respects could donate to Parton's Imagination Library, an organization that provides books to children under the age of five.
Parton, known for her hit songs, distinctive humor, and fashion sense, was mourned by artists, actors, and performers following her death. Many shared memories on social media, including her goddaughter Miley Cyrus, who wrote about their cherished offstage moments and expressed her heartbreak for the loss.