DOLLY PARTON IS MISSING HER GRAND OLE OPRY 80TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
The Queen of Country Music is hitting a milestone! Dolly Parton turns 80 on January 19, and Nashville is ready to celebrate in true country style. The Grand Ole Opry is throwing a spectacular birthday party, packed with music, dance, celebrity appearances and plenty of surprises for fans. But unfortunately, Dolly isn't able to attend.
Why won't Dolly be there?
Fans hoping to see Dolly in person might be disappointed. The superstar, who has faced recent health challenges, won't be at the celebration. She shared a heartfelt video message on the Opry's Instagram:
"Well, hey there Grand Ole Opry family," Parton said in a video posted to the Opry page. "I just wanted to say how much it means to me that you're all coming together again this year to celebrate my big ol' birthday with some of my songs. Some of my favorite memories happened right here onstage at the Grand Ole Opry, and I wish I could be there in person but I'll be sending you all my love, for sure. So, you have the best night ever."
When is the Dolly Parton birthday celebration?
The festivities kick off on Saturday, January 17 at 7 PM at the iconic Grand Ole Opry, just two days before Dolly's actual birthday. Tickets are still available at Opry.com, giving fans the chance to be part of an unforgettable evening.
Dolly Parton's Life Is Now a Musical-See Who's Playing Her!
Dolly Parton (2019)
Star-Studded performances
Even without Dolly on stage, the night promises incredible performances from some of country music's finest. Fans can expect to see Lainey Wilson, Trannie Anderson, Vince Gill, Sierra Hull, Elizabeth Nichols, Rhonda Vincent and Mark Wills, along with the Opry Square Dancers bringing energy and flair to the celebration. It's a lineup packed with talent that honors Dolly's enduring influence on the genre.
Dolly Parton's 80th Birthday event surprises
The Grand Ole Opry isn't holding back on the surprises. They wrote, "While Dolly is unable to attend in person, we're looking forward to honoring her through song and fun all day long." Guests can enjoy birthday-themed cupcakes during Opry House daytime tours, sign a giant birthday card dedicated to Dolly, take photos with a Dolly impersonator on the Opry plaza, sip on specialty Dolly-themed drinks and experience musical tributes woven throughout the show.
Can I watch the celebration?
With decades of hits, countless iconic performances and a career that has shaped country music, Dolly Parton's 80th birthday celebration promises to be an unforgettable night-even if the Queen herself has to watch from afar. Join the fun on January 17 at 7 PM, airing on Circle Country and available for free on platforms like Roku, Tubi, Samsung TV Plus and Xumo, with subscription options on FuboTV and Peacock.
Keep reading for more entertainment!
Dolly Parton Swears by These ‘Rejoicing Exercises' to Stay Happy and Healthy at 79
Dolly Parton Swears by These ‘Rejoicing Exercises' to Stay Happy and Healthy at 79
2026-01-17T04:36:38Z