Dolly Parton Returns Home: A Heartfelt Conversation at Dollywood’s Seasonal Opening
When Dolly Parton steps onto the grounds of Dollywood, there’s a sense of homecoming that transcends celebrity or tradition. It’s not just the opening of a theme park—it’s a return to the roots, values, and people that have shaped her life and career for over seven decades. At the most recent Dollywood seasonal opening, Parton sat down for a warm and personal conversation with News Channel 11, offering not only updates on the park’s new features, but also her reflections on family, legacy, and the enduring spirit of her Appalachian upbringing.
Clad in one of her signature, sparkle-dusted outfits, Dolly Parton, now in her late seventies, remains as energetic and engaged as ever. Her appearance was met with joy by fans and visitors, many of whom see her as not just a musical icon but a living symbol of kindness, resilience, and creativity. Dollywood, nestled in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has long served as more than just a tourist destination. It is, in Dolly’s own words during the interview, “a place where people come to remember what matters.”
In her conversation with News Channel 11, Parton highlighted some of the park’s new attractions and improvements for the season. These included enhancements to guest experiences, expansions in entertainment, and fresh culinary offerings—all designed with families in mind. But beyond the updates, it was Parton’s heartfelt tone that struck the strongest chord. “I always wanted Dollywood to feel like a piece of the mountains,” she shared, “something folks can carry in their hearts even after they’ve gone.”
When asked about the importance of continuing to appear in person at the park openings, her answer was simple and sincere: “This is part of who I am. I’m proud of what we’ve built here, but more than anything, I’m proud that it gives something back to the community.” This sense of giving back is a consistent thread in Parton’s life and work. From the Dollywood Foundation to her internationally celebrated Imagination Library, which has gifted over 200 million books to children worldwide, her efforts have always focused on lifting others up—especially those who start life with less.
During the interview, Parton also spoke about the emotional impact of reconnecting with long-time fans and first-time visitors. Many guests shared stories of how her music or philanthropy had touched their lives, and it was clear those words meant the world to her. “When people tell me that something I wrote or did helped them through a hard time, that’s the real reward,” she said, eyes welling slightly. “That’s better than any gold record.”
In typical Dolly fashion, the interview was peppered with her trademark wit and charm. Whether laughing about the unpredictable mountain weather or playfully teasing her team about her tight schedule, her joy was infectious. But beneath the laughter was a clear, grounded message: gratitude. Gratitude for her fans, her faith, her home, and the chance to continue making a difference—whether through song, service, or a place like Dollywood.
In closing, Dolly Parton’s appearance at Dollywood and her interview with News Channel 11 remind us of the power of authenticity. In a fast-moving world, she remains a steadfast presence—humble, hopeful, and ever tuned to the spirit of the Smokies. As the gates of Dollywood open for another season, so too does Dolly open her heart once more, inviting all who come to feel a little closer to home.