The official website for Dollywood, the Tennessee theme park co-founded by country music legend Dolly Parton, experienced a crash on August 25, 2026, as a surge of mourners attempted to access information following news of her death.
The site, Dollywood.com, became inaccessible less than an hour after Parton's passing was announced, prompting many fans to seek updates on travel forums. The park is known for its roller coasters, live concerts, and an archive of Parton's memorabilia, including the original "coat of many colors."
"I was planning on visiting Wednesday of next week," one user wrote on Reddit, questioning anticipated crowd levels. Another commenter expressed concern about "vloggers eager for ‘content.'"
Dollywood president Eugene Naughton issued a statement acknowledging Parton's death at the age of 80. "Dolly's heart was as vast as the mountains she cherished, and her compassion knew no bounds," Naughton said. "She inspired generations to dream boldly and love deeply."
Naughton confirmed that the park would remain open the following day, stating, "as Dolly wanted." He encouraged those impacted by Parton's life to contribute to her Imagination Library, a program that supports childhood literacy initiatives nationwide.
Dollywood originally opened in 1986 in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, beginning as a small, railroad-themed family park. Over 40 years, it has evolved to include thrill rides and attractions featuring traditional Appalachian food and crafts.
Fans online echoed Naughton's sentiment, with one user in a Dollywood forum advising others, "Don’t change your trip. Dolly would want you to have fun."