Forty years ago, Dolly Parton nervously opened the gates to what would become one of America’s most beloved theme parks. “I was so nervous that nobody was going to come,” she recalled with a laugh during Dollywood’s 40th anniversary opening ceremony. Today, thousands gather not just for rides and music but to witness a woman who turned hometown dreams into national magic. The moment is captured beautifully as Dollywood opens for its 40th season; Dolly attends the opening ceremony.
In the video, Dolly shares stories laced with humor and humility, joking about rides messing up her iconic hair yet anchoring it all in a deep devotion to her roots. There’s joy, pride, and even a wistful tenderness as she reflects on 40 years of “dreams coming true.” Her warmth shines even brighter beside the ongoing transformations at Dollywood: the permanent Imagination Playhouse for kids, a new restaurant, and upgrades to fan-favorite rides. She is both a soft storyteller and a shrewd visionary, ever playful, ever resolute.
Dollywood opens for 40th season, Dolly attends opening ceremony
Fans in the crowd echoed those themes. “She’s amazing,” said a longtime pass holder, her voice full of emotion. In the comment sections and interviews, people describe how Dolly’s presence, whether through a song or a smile, helped them get through hard years, loss or loneliness. Their stories turn a public celebration into a deeply personal tribute. These shared experiences are the glue that binds Dolly’s community.
From that emotional high, you find the next chapter in another recent release: Dolly Parton – If You Hadn’t Been There. It’s not about fanfare, it’s about reckoning with the people and moments that shape who you become. The song leans into gratitude and quiet strength offering a path through reflection and recovery.
Dolly Parton – If You Hadn’t Been There (NEW VIDEO 2025)
In this video, Dolly stands tall against a golden-hued backdrop, her voice steady and clear. The lyrics blend regret and resilience, and her eyes are intensely focused pulling viewers into a story of redemption. The visuals are stripped down but striking which reminds you that strength can live in stillness. This is Dolly in full bloom; not nostalgic but deeply rooted and reaching forward.
What keeps Dolly’s music so timeless is her raw honesty, never exaggerated, always grounded. She opens up about pain and triumph in ways that remind fans, they’re not alone. Follow her journey on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. You never know which song will come just in time.