In an exclusive interview, country music icon Dolly Parton reveals her family's cherished holiday customs and her approach to indulgence during this festive season. From elaborate feasts to heartwarming gatherings, Parton shares how she celebrates Christmas with generations of loved ones.
Join the Celebration: Discover How Dolly Parton Makes Every Moment Count During the Holidays
The Art of Enjoying the Season Without Limits
For many, the holiday season is a time for indulgence, and Dolly Parton embraces this philosophy wholeheartedly. She explained that from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day, her family focuses on enjoying every moment without worrying about dietary restrictions. “We all start eating around Thanksgiving and continue until the first of January,” she said. “It’s a time to savor delicious meals and not think about dieting.”This period of celebration allows Parton and her family to indulge in their favorite dishes without restraint. “You stretch your clothes out” while relishing all the good food, but Parton remains unfazed. She knows that after the holidays, she’ll be ready to embark on a fresh start with a new diet plan. Her relaxed attitude towards holiday indulgence reflects a broader mindset of balance and enjoyment.A Multigenerational Feast Fit for Royalty
Parton’s Christmas dinner is nothing short of spectacular. Each year, she prepares an extensive meal for her extended family, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The menu includes traditional favorites like turkey and ham, complemented by Southern staples such as black-eyed peas, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and more. The feast is a reflection of Parton’s commitment to creating memorable experiences for her loved ones. “We have everything you can imagine,” she said. Alongside the meal, Parton serves wine from her own label, which pairs perfectly with the diverse flavors on the table. This thoughtful touch adds an extra layer of warmth to the gathering, making it even more special.Singing Together: A Heartwarming Tradition
Music plays a central role in Parton’s holiday celebrations. After the meal, the family gathers around the piano to sing classic Christmas songs. Favorites like “O Little Town of Bethlehem” and “Silent Night” bring everyone together in a spirit of unity and joy. These musical moments are deeply personal for Parton, who has been fostering this tradition since she was young. “I’ve been doing this since I had my younger brothers and sisters,” she shared. Now, with multiple generations participating, the tradition has become even more meaningful. Singing together strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.Dollywood Dreams: Inviting the Royals to Share in the Magic
Earlier this year, Parton expressed her desire to host the British royal family at Dollywood for Thanksgiving. She envisioned a day filled with fun and laughter, where the royals could experience the park’s attractions and enjoy the same simple pleasures her family loves. “Oh, I would absolutely love for them to come to Dollywood,” she enthused. “The kids could go on all the rides, and we would treat them like royalty!”Despite missing an opportunity to meet Princess Kate at Buckingham Palace due to scheduling conflicts, Parton remains hopeful about future encounters. Her invitation to the royals underscores her genuine warmth and hospitality, qualities that have endeared her to fans worldwide.Granny Claus: A Legacy of Love and Laughter
Throughout the years, Parton has earned various nicknames from different generations of children in her family. Whether they call her “Granny Claus,” “Dolly Claus,” or “Gigi Claus,” these affectionate titles highlight her role as a beloved figure in their lives. Christmas holds a special place in Parton’s heart, and she goes all-out to make it magical for everyone. “Christmas is a big thing for us,” she emphasized. From preparing elaborate meals to singing carols, each activity is infused with love and laughter. This dedication to creating joyful experiences showcases Parton’s deep connection to her family and her unwavering commitment to preserving cherished traditions.READ MORE