BROOKFIELD, Conn. — September 16, 2026: Dolly Parton is being remembered this fall in an unusual way, with farms across the United States and Canada transforming their cornfields into giant tributes celebrating the late country music star.
Around 20 farms in roughly a dozen U.S. states and two Canadian provinces have created large-scale corn mazes featuring Parton’s image. The seasonal attractions are also raising money for her Imagination Library, a program that provides free books to children.
Parton died from cancer on Aug. 25 in Nashville at the age of 80. Her death prompted tributes from fans and communities, including efforts to honor her through public landmarks and renewed interest in her music.
Corn Mazes Turned Into Dolly Tributes
The mazes stretch from Alabama to California and from Ohio to Texas, with attractions featuring Parton-inspired trivia, photographs and other activities.
At Twins BBQ in Brookfield, Connecticut, visitors can explore a five-acre maze designed in the shape of Parton’s portrait. The massive artwork features her recognizable appearance along with the words “Dolly” and “An American Treasure.”
The maze was created by The Maize Inc., a Utah-based company that has designed similar country music-themed attractions in previous years. Founder Brett Herbst described Parton as an important American cultural figure and said this year’s tribute has gained additional significance following her death.
Tribute Was Planned Before Parton’s Death
Organizers said the Dolly-themed corn mazes were planned several months before the singer died. The project forms part of The Maize Inc.’s annual tradition of celebrating major country music performers.
Previous featured artists included Reba McEntire in 2023, Luke Bryan in 2024 and Lainey Wilson in 2025.
Parton had previously expressed support for the project and encouraged people to enjoy the maze while helping raise funds for her children’s literacy charity.
Visitors Embrace the Dolly Parton Theme
The Connecticut attraction has drawn visitors dressed in cowboy boots, cowboy hats and Dolly Parton-themed shirts, adding a festive atmosphere to the fall experience.
Danielle Gallop, co-owner of Twins BBQ, said she became more familiar with Parton’s legacy after attending a corn maze convention at Dollywood, the Tennessee theme park associated with the singer.
Gallop said learning about Parton’s approach to business and philanthropy made the tribute especially meaningful to her. She described Parton as an influential figure whose generosity and humility left a lasting impression.
Finding the Way Through Parton’s Hair
While the maze offers visitors a chance to celebrate Parton, navigating the design can be challenging.
Visitors said sections featuring the word “Dolly” were relatively easy to follow because of their straightforward layout. Gallop joked that Parton’s distinctive hairstyle created some of the maze’s most complicated sections because of its many twists and narrow openings.
For many visitors, however, the challenge is part of the fun. Organizers say the costumes, photos and enthusiasm surrounding the attraction have created a visible celebration of Parton’s legacy.
