Dollywood Reopens Wednesday After Dolly Parton's Death

Dolly Parton, the country music icon and co-owner of the Dollywood theme park, has died at the age of 80. Her death was announced on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, by her nephew, Bryan Seaver, in a video posted to her official social media accounts. In response, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, announced it will reopen on Wednesday, August 26, following a one-day closure, in accordance with Parton's wishes.

Seaver, who served as Parton's head of security for more than two decades, stated in the video that the announcement was something Parton had requested of him years prior. A cause of death was not immediately revealed. The news prompted an immediate outpouring of tributes from across the entertainment and political worlds.

Dollywood, which Parton co-owned with Herschend Family Entertainment since 1986, confirmed it would not close permanently. The park was closed on Tuesday, the day of the announcement, canceling scheduled events. However, in a statement released shortly after, park officials declared it would welcome guests again on Wednesday. "In her spirit, Dollywood will be open Wednesday as Dolly wanted, always reminding everyone with her signature sparkle the show must...