Festival honouring Dolly Parton set for Nashville and London

The estate of the late country‑music legend Dolly Parton has announced a festival whose purpose is to celebrate the singer’s life and legacy. Dubbed DollyFest, the two‑day event will take place over two consecutive weekends in both Nashville and London in 2027, with dates to be confirmed.

Parton had originally conceived an earlier version of the festival for 2026, with her performing and hosting ceremonies alongside other artists. That show was cancelled before it was announced because of her health challenges, the estate said.

DollyFest will replace the traditional public memorial that followed her death at 80 on 25 August after a brief battle with cancer. It will honour her wishes for a celebration rather than a conventional ceremony.

The festival organiser, Danny Nozell of CTK Enterprises, said supporters are still free to celebrate in ways that fit them. He described DollyFest as an authentic format reflecting Dolly’s personality, one that allows people globally to join while giving them time to grieve and plan.

Parton was a country‑music icon, a philanthropist, and a businesswoman who penned songs such as “Coat of Many Colours”, “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You”. During her seven‑decade career she won ten Grammys, sold over 100 million records worldwide and authored thousands of songs.

Since her death, tributes from celebrities, politicians and fans have flooded social media. One quote echoed DollyFest’s ethos: “What Dolly Would Do! – that’s the spirit behind this celebration,” said Nozell, echoing her famous ‘What Would Dolly Do?` mantra.