Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Turns a New Leaf This Autumn

Published September 27, 2023 / Last Updated September 27, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

The Imagination Library celebrates significant growth while inspiring a love of reading this fall.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library enters the fall season by celebrating new achievements in its statewide expansion efforts and encouraging good reading habits with an imaginative selection of fall books!

Dolly’s book-gifting program has over 200 Million Reasons to Celebrate, having now gifted over 218 million books to children across the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia and the Republic of Ireland. As we embark upon the fall season, the Imagination Library continues to inspire more children around the world to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More!

The Imagination Library Expands Statewide in Indiana and Alabama

Indiana Imagination LibraryDolly’s renowned early childhood literacy program has recently made significant strides in expanding its reach by launching 2 statewide expansions in Indiana and Alabama, with a goal of one day soon providing full statewide access to free books for all children under five in these states.

In Indiana, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is available in 54 counties and is partially available in eight counties, with expansion plans to soon fully cover the entire state – all 92 counties.

Alabama Imagination Library

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Alabama’s program currently has 55 operating local program partners covering portions of Alabama’s 67 counties. The Imagination Library of Alabama expansion will focus on finding community partners to start new Imagination Library programs to eventually reach full coverage across the entire state. These expansions mark an exciting development in providing access to free books for children in these states, furthering the program’s mission of inspiring a love of reading and learning in children from birth to age five.

 

Dolly Visits Statewide Celebrations in Kansas and Washington

Kansas Imagination LibraryDolly Parton recently visited Imagination Library Statewide Celebrations in Kansas and Washington, which marked the significant achievement of full statewide coverage to every child under five in these states.

Governor Kelly welcomed Dolly to Kansas for the Statewide Celebration of the Imagination Library held on August 14, designating it as “Imagination Library of Kansas Day.” The celebration, attended by nearly 500 supporters of the program and special guests hosted by the Imagination Library of Kansas, marked the expansion of the Imagination Library to cover the entire state of Kansas, while highlighting the program’s significant impact, offering an inspiring example of its mission to provide every child with the gift of reading.

On August 15, Dolly visited Washington to commemorate the “Imagination Library ofWashington Imagination Library Washington Day” during a Statewide Celebration of her Imagination Library. This event marked the expansion of the Imagination Library to all Washington counties, extending its reach to all children under five across the state. Hosted by the Imagination Library of Washington, the celebratory event featured a fireside chat with Dolly Parton, small performance, and recognition of champions from across the state who are making Dolly’s dream possible for Washington’s earliest learners.

Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Has 200 Million Reasons to Celebrate200 Million Reasons to Celebrate

In celebration of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library reaching the incredible milestone of gifting over 200 million books worldwide, an exciting initiative went underway this September for International Literacy Month. Over 2,800 local partners worldwide have contributed to this achievement by gifting books each month to children.

During the month of September, seven magical Dolly bookmarks were discreetly placed inside Imagination Library books provided to children and families enrolled in the program around the world. Seven fortunate recipients from five different countries who discover these hidden bookmarks in their books will have the chance to enjoy a video chat with Dolly, receive a personalized signed letter, an autographed photo, and four Dollywood Theme Park tickets if they wish. As a gesture of gratitude to the program’s dedicated local program partners, the Dollywood Foundation will also donate $2,000 USD/CAD/AUD or £2,000 GBP to the Local Imagination Library Partner, recognizing them as the true heroes of Dolly’s initiative.

If you have a child who is enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, check inside your September book now to see if you are one of the lucky families!

To learn more, visit www.imaginationlibrary.com/200-million-books.

Fall Books to Spark Imagination

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading and learning by gifting books, free of charge, to families via funding shared by Dolly and local community partners. Fall is a beautiful time of year to spark the imagination, not only by spending more time enjoying fall festivities, but also by spending more time reading! Here are a few of the specially selected, age-appropriate books going out to registered children this fall.

 

GoldilocksGoldilocks and the Three Bears

Everybody loves the story of the curious little girl named Goldilocks, who made herself quite at home in the house of the three bears. Jan Brett’s lavish illustrations for this classic tale, full of details and surprises, gives this edition a special flair. Children will marvel at the enchanted world created herein.

 

 

Red Sky at NightRed Sky at Night

Acclaimed paper artist Elly MacKay illustrates a lovely family narrative through the use of weather sayings, creating a beautiful and informational story which will appeal to a child’s fascination with the natural world.

 

 

Goodnight TractorGoodnight Tractor

A little boy says goodnight to all his toys, but who is the favourite? Why, it’s Tractor of course! With a rhyming text, atmospheric illustrations and plenty of animal sounds to join in with, Goodnight Tractor will help your little darlings go to bed and stay there.

 

 

New to the Imagination Library?

Check availability in your area to register a child, sign up to receive a notification when the Imagination Library becomes available to you or learn more about how to Start A Program in your area.

Team DollyDolly Parton’s Imagination Library Turns a New Leaf This Autumn

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival Brings Fall Family Fun Home to the Smokies

Published September 25, 2023 / Last Updated September 25, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Celebrate Fall at Dollywood’s Harvest Festival, Happening September 20 – October 30.

With the evening air of the Smokies developing a refreshingly crisp coolness, the time is perfect for Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana (Sept. 20- Oct. 30). A longstanding tradition for many, the Harvest Festival greets guests with an amazing autumn atmosphere, thanks to stunning park décor and the surrounding beauty of the mountainsides draped in vibrant fall colors.

“I wrote a song several years ago called ‘God’s Coloring Book,’” Dolly said, “and there’s no doubt that the Smokies—especially in the fall—display so many of those beautiful pages for everyone to admire. The mountains transform and just become so alive with all the different colors that you want to be outside enjoying the power and beauty of nature. I’m so glad we’re able to share that with all of the guests who come visit Dollywood during this special time of year.

“I truly believe Dollywood is the most beautiful theme park in the whole world because it’s built right here in the middle of God’s Coloring Book”

Great Pumpkin LumiNights

During the day, guests can experience immersive live music, rich harvest-themed culinary creations, and picture-perfect photo ops with more than 12,000 pumpkins throughout the park. By night, the pumpkins come to life thanks to Great Pumpkin LumiNights presented by Covenant Health. A family-favorite since its inception, the event grows again this year with a “bee-utiful” new display located in Craftsman’s Valley. Guests will be buzzing for the new display located near Hug-a-Bee Honey, the interactive honey bee exhibit which debuted during this season’s Flower & Food Festival.

Flavors of Fall

The bees are not the only ones creating something sweet during the Harvest Festival. Guests are greeted by the comforting smells of sweet pumpkin treats and warm apple cider created by the park’s award-winning culinary team. Delicious fall favorites include a pulled pork sandwich with pumpkin spice BBQ sauce, three bean pumpkin chili, salted maple potato tornado, toasted pumpkin sausage and ricotta flatbread, and spiced pumpkin bisque with toasted pepitas.

Award-Winning Entertainment

A deep-seated tradition in the Great Smoky Mountains, live music is at the heart and soul of fall at Dollywood with Southern gospel, bluegrass and country artists found performing throughout the park. Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, Jeannie Seely, Emily Ann Roberts, Dailey and Vincent, Triumphant Quartet, Hannah Dasher and The Isaacs are just a few of the performers set to take the stage at Dollywood.

Performances take place on indoor and outdoor stages throughout the park, allowing the beautiful sounds to echo through the surrounding hillsides and create a highly-engaging entertainment offering. More than 1700 individual performances take place during the festival. A complete schedule can be found on Dollywood.com.

Vibrant New Displays and Returning Fall Favorites

Also new this year, guests will find thousands of vibrant, shimmering leaves swaying in the breeze along Showstreet. Harvest Sky serves as a striking photo backdrop as soon as people step into the park. Hoot Owl Hollow—which debuted last season—returns this year, while other displays have been refreshed or relocated within new areas of the park, extending the footprint of Great Pumpkin LumiNights.

Several other guest favorites return to the Harvest Festival, including the colossal pumpkins—last year’s pumpkins ranged in weight from 800 to 1500 lbs. each—which come from growers across the East Coast. The combined weight of all the colossal pumpkins totals more than 19,200 lbs.! Visiting artisans and makers display their handmade wares at locations throughout Dollywood, with many demonstrating the talented skills and techniques used to create their one-of-a-kind treasures.

Harvest Festival Happenings at DreamMore Resort

The Harvest Festival fun also is celebrated at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa with themed activities and harvest décor planned throughout the resort’s property.

Guests can enjoy live entertainment in the resort’s atrium every Tuesday and Thursday night including performances by Maggie & Owen, Lonesome Roses, Tommy Cox and more. Daily roaming performers also can be found throughout the resort.

The resort’s culinary team is cooking up seasonal dining experiences. In The Lounge, guests can feast upon delicious Harvest-themed food and beverage options with a special Harvest Festival Menu. In The Spa at DreamMore Resort, guests can relax with special treatments infused with honey, pumpkin and vanilla that are reminiscent of harvest in the Smoky Mountains.

Plan Your Visit

With so many opportunities for creating vibrant new family traditions, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival is a must-see experience this season.

Dollywood is open 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. each day of operation (Sept. 20- Oct. 30) during the Harvest Festival. The park is closed on Tuesdays throughout the festival. For more information and the park operating calendar, visit Dollywood.com or download the Dollywood app.

Team DollyDollywood’s Harvest Festival Brings Fall Family Fun Home to the Smokies

Dolly Parton Releases Moving and Reflective Cover of “What’s Up?” Featuring Linda Perry

Published September 22, 2023 / Last Updated September 26, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Listen to “What’s Up? (feat. Linda Perry)” from Dolly Parton’s Upcoming Rockstar Album

Music Video For New Single Premieres Worldwide Via MTV & CMT With Paramount Times Square Broadcast

Dolly Parton has released the latest track off her upcoming Rock n’ Roll album, Rockstar (available on November 17th via Butterfly Records) – a stirring rendition of the ‘90s hit, “What’s Up?,” which features the song’s writer and lead singer, Linda Perry. A song about the at-times, overwhelming pressures of the world around us and the need for release. Dolly’s angelic and hopeful voice ushers in a sense of promise for a better tomorrow.

“First of all, I love Linda Perry,” Dolly shared. “Second of all, I love this song written by Linda. Third of all, I love being a part of this video to try to make people think about what’s going on in this world today. Shout out to the little children that helped with the video! If our children don’t make it, then what will? Again, I ask ‘What’s Up?’ Enjoy.”

“How is one supposed to react when the greatest and most prolific songwriter in the world wants to cover a song YOU wrote? Her version of ‘What’s Up?’ is so good,” Linda said. “Her spin on it made me feel like it was her song. No surprise there. Being on set making the video was a comfortable easy experience. The vibe on set was chill and Dolly and I got to catch up and laugh a lot. I could go on and on, obviously I’m a fan!”

WATCH: “What’s Up?” Music Video (feat. Linda Perry)

Filmed at Eakin Elementary School in downtown Nashville on one of 2023’s hottest days of the year and directed by Steve Summers (produced by NOZ Entertainment), the touching video airs September 22 exclusively on MTV and CMT/CMT Music/CMT on Pluto TV (check local listings for times), as well as on their iconic Times Square billboard. The video will then be released via YouTube and all other streaming platforms beginning September 23 at 10am ET.

Below are additional airdates for MTV/CMT programming featuring Dolly and her upcoming Rockstar album:

CMT, MTV & PARAMOUNT TIMES SQUARE BILLBOARD – DOLLY “WHAT’S UP? (FEAT. LINDA PERRY)” PREMIERE
Airs: Friday 9/22 beginning at 6am ET across CMT, CMT Music, CMT Equal Play (Pluto), MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop (Pluto) and Paramount’s Times Square Billboard.

MTV FRESH OUT LIVE – DOLLY “WHAT’S UP? (FEAT. LINDA PERRY)”
Airs: Friday 9/22 at 5pm ET on MTV

CMT HOT 20
11/11 at 9am ET on CMT
11/12 at 9am ET on CMT

MTV FRESH OUT LIVE – DOLLY “ROCKSTAR”
Airs: Friday 11/17 at 5pm ET on MTV

DOLLY PARTON “I WANT MY MTV”
11/17, MTV Live
11/17 at 18:00, CMT Australia
11/17 at 19:00 GMT, MTV Music (UK)
11/17 at 19:45 GMT, MTV Live Int’l (global)
11/17 at 21:30 CET, MTV Germany
11/21, MTV Hits (France)

CMT AUSTRALIA – “IT’S A DOLLY-THON”
11/17 from 3pm – 6pm
*Celebrate the premiere of Dolly’s “I Want My MTV” episode with 3 hours of all things Dolly featuring her entire videography.

Pre-Order Rockstar, Available November 17

Releasing November 17, Rockstar is now available for pre-order and set for global release as a 4 LP set, a 2 CD set, digital download and on all streaming services.

Team DollyDolly Parton Releases Moving and Reflective Cover of “What’s Up?” Featuring Linda Perry

Fall Into a High-Spirited Adventure at Dolly Parton’s Stampede

Published September 20, 2023 / Last Updated September 22, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Enjoy fall family fun at the World’s Most Visited Dinner Attraction™

Are you ready to take the reins this fall and experience an unforgettable autumn adventure? Visit Dolly Parton’s Stampede! With locations in both Branson, MO and Pigeon Forge, TN, there’s no better place to celebrate the fall season.

Enjoy thrilling horse riding stunts, stunning musical productions, breathtaking aerial performances, and a delicious four-course feast when you visit this family-friendly, world-class dinner attraction. Keep reading to learn what you’ll love about visiting Dolly Parton’s Stampede in the fall.

High-Spirited Autumn Adventure

Kick off the fall season with an adventure like no other at Dolly Parton’s Stampede. You’ll get to watch as 32 magnificent horses and a cast of talented trick riders perform daring stunts, captivating audience members with their talents. The high-spirited adventure also features friendly competition, aerial performances, musical productions, and spectacular special effects. It’s a show that all ages will love!

Savory Fall Feast

It wouldn’t be the world’s most visited dinner attraction without a delicious meal! You’ll be able to enjoy a four-course feast as big as the autumn harvest when you take your seats. The feast is sure to satisfy all your country cravings, with The Stampede’s famous creamy vegetable soup, a homemade buttery biscuit, a tender whole rotisserie chicken, hickory-smoked barbecued pork loin, buttery corn on the cob, an herb-basted potato, and a specialty dessert. There’s also unlimited Coca-Cola® products, tea, and coffee. Vegetarian and gluten-free meals are available upon request.

Fall Family Memories

There’s no better way to enjoy the fall season than by spending time with family members in a place you love! When you visit Dolly Parton’s Stampede this fall, you’re guaranteed to leave with shared memories you’ll cherish for years to come. You can even purchase a souvenir family photo together to serve as a reminder of what an amazing time you had together!

Make Fall Plans

Are you ready to start planning your autumn adventure at Dolly Parton’s Stampede? Visit the Dolly Parton’s Stampede website to get your tickets today!

Team DollyFall Into a High-Spirited Adventure at Dolly Parton’s Stampede

Enjoy Fall Family Fun at Pirates Voyage

Published September 20, 2023 / Last Updated September 22, 2023
Team Dolly is a collaboration of writers, editors, and publishers assembled by Dolly Parton Productions. Each member is dedicated to accurately publishing the latest news and historical archives of the living legend that is Dolly Rebecca Parton.

Managing Editor - Jacob Timmons
Creative Director - Sarah Chapman
Team Dolly

Fun, Feast, and Adventure Await at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Ahoy, matey! Who’s ready for an unforgettable autumn adventure? Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is the place to be this fall. This popular dinner attraction has locations in Pigeon Forge, TN and Myrtle Beach, SC. We’re sharing why you don’t want to miss the family fun, feast, and adventure at Pirates Voyage this fall season:

Fall Family Fun

One thing every fall vacation needs is fun. Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is the perfect place for family fun. Arrive early to Join the Crew, an experience that allows kids (and adults, too!) to transform into swashbuckling pirates or beautiful mermaids. The makeovers are available for all ages for an additional fee!

The main event features Captain Blackbeard and his quartermaster, Calico Jack, as they lead the Crimson and Sapphire crews in a battle on land, on deck, in the water, and high above two full-sized pirate ships in an indoor hideaway lagoon. During the epic pirate battle, you’ll witness sword fighting, cannons blazing, singing and dancing, and more. The show has more than just pirates, though — you’ll meet high-diving mermaids, daring dogs, and salty sea lions in this action-packed adventure.

Fall Pirate Feast

One thing you’ll definitely want to bring with you to Pirates Voyage is your appetite. This dinner attraction is serving a four-course pirate feast this fall that will satisfy pirates and landlubbers alike. The Myrtle Beach location includes Voyager Creamy Vegetable Soup, Buccaneer Bread, Half O’ Roasted Cackler (Chicken), Swashbucklin’ Sugar-Cured Ham, Cob O’ Buttery Corn, a Pirate Herb-Basted Potato, and Apple O’ Me Eye Pie. The Pigeon Forge location offers Voyager Creamy Vegetable Soup, a Buccaneer Biscuit, Cracklin’ Pan-Fried Chicken, Sugar-Cured Ham, Corn on the Cob, an Herb-Basted Potato, and a Walk the Plank Peach Turnover.

Both locations serve unlimited Coca-Cola® products, tea, or coffee. Special meals are available upon request.

Fall Memories

The best part about visiting Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show this fall is the incredible memories you’ll create with your loved ones. Adding this popular dinner attraction to your fall vacation itinerary guarantees an evening filled with fun, feast, and adventure!

Are you ready to start planning? Visit the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show website, and get your tickets today.

Team DollyEnjoy Fall Family Fun at Pirates Voyage