Nashville, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – A new international music festival honoring the life and legacy of Dolly Parton is coming to Nashville in 2027.
Organizers announced Monday that Nashville has been selected as one of just two cities worldwide to host DOLLYFEST, a large-scale celebration inspired by Parton’s longtime vision for a major music festival bearing her name. The second host city will be London, England, with events planned over two consecutive weekends on two continents.
Festival organizers said the event evolved from plans that were originally underway before Parton’s death.
According to a news release, what was initially envisioned as a multi-artist event in Nashville for January 2026, featuring Parton as host and performer, has now transformed into a global celebration designed to honor her legacy.
“What was originally planned as a multi-artist event for January 2026 in Nashville and intended to feature Parton as performer and host, will now morph into a global double-day, double-weekend, double-continent party of a lifetime,” organizers said.
Specific festival dates and performer lineups have not yet been announced.
Danny Nozell, founder and CEO of CTK Enterprises, said DOLLYFEST was one of Parton’s personal dreams and something she had hoped to launch as part of her 80th birthday celebration.
“What Dolly started, we will ensure is brought to life,” Nozell said. “Many people behind the scenes know that DOLLYFEST is a dream of Dolly’s that was intended to take place on her 80th birthday in Nashville.”
Nozell said plans were well underway before Parton experienced health challenges in 2025, which delayed the project.
Organizers emphasized that the festival is intended to celebrate Parton’s life in a way that reflects her wishes.
“We are not discouraging people from celebrating Dolly in the ways they choose,” Nozell said. “However, as far as a traditional memorial goes, that is not something Dolly wanted.”
Instead, organizers say the festival will allow fans, artists and admirers around the world to come together in a celebration that captures Parton’s spirit, music and influence while also giving supporters time to grieve and plan their participation.
Parton, known worldwide for her music, philanthropy, business ventures and East Tennessee roots, remains one of the most influential figures in country music history.
Further details, including dates, venues and artist announcements, are expected to be released in the coming months.
