CHRISTMAS ROYALTY RETURNS: Dolly Parton Brings Country Soul and Holiday Magic to Rockefeller Center This Year

The holiday season in New York City just got a little warmer — and a whole lot more magical. The Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton, is set to headline NBC’s annual Christmas at Rockefeller Center celebration, marking her first live holiday performance at the event in nearly a decade.

For fans, this isn’t just another seasonal special — it’s a full-circle moment. With her unmistakable voice, radiant smile, and down-to-earth charm, Dolly represents everything people love most about Christmas: kindness, nostalgia, and the joy of giving.

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” Dolly shared in a statement. “And to me, music is the best way to spread that love and light. I can’t wait to be part of this beautiful tradition again.”

A Season to Remember

Set against the backdrop of the iconic Rockefeller Center tree — a glowing 80-foot spruce decked in more than 50,000 sparkling lights — Dolly’s return is expected to be the highlight of the night. The country legend will perform a mix of sacred hymns and cheerful classics, including “Silent Night,” “O Holy Night,” and festive tracks from her fan-favorite album A Holly Dolly Christmas.

Producers have described her set as “a celebration of heart and home,” complete with live musicians, a gospel choir, and surprise duets with some of the biggest names in music. Rumors are swirling that Kelly Clarkson and Kenny Chesney may join her on stage for a special medley — though NBC has yet to confirm the details.

Dolly’s Legacy of Holiday Spirit

For Dolly Parton, Christmas has always been about more than twinkling lights or television ratings. It’s about community and compassion. From her work with the Imagination Library, which has gifted over 230 million books to children worldwide, to her countless charitable efforts across Tennessee, Dolly has made generosity part of her brand — and her heart.

Each December, she also returns to her hometown of Sevier County, Tennessee, to host a private Christmas concert for local families. The event raises money for scholarships and disaster relief programs in the Smoky Mountains region — something Dolly says “keeps her grounded and grateful.”

“I grew up with very little,” she once said. “So Christmas, to me, was always about giving whatever you could — even if it was just a song.”

The Spirit of Rockefeller

Rockefeller Center’s Christmas celebration has long been a symbol of hope and joy, uniting millions of viewers each year. Since its first televised broadcast in 1951, it’s featured legends from Bing Crosby to Mariah Carey — and now, once again, Dolly Parton will take her place among them.

This year’s ceremony is especially meaningful. Coming at a time when the world feels divided, Dolly’s music offers something rare — a bridge between generations, genres, and beliefs. Her blend of faith, humor, and country soul speaks to everyone, whether you grew up in the hills of Appalachia or the heart of Manhattan.

NBC producers say Dolly’s set will include a brand-new arrangement of “Hard Candy Christmas” — her bittersweet classic from The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas — reimagined with orchestral strings and a children’s choir.

“It’s going to be emotional,” said one executive producer. “Dolly has this ability to make you laugh one moment and tear up the next. That’s the magic of her storytelling.”

A Tradition Reborn

As anticipation builds, fans from around the country are planning trips to New York to witness the performance live. Hotels near Rockefeller Center are already reporting higher bookings, and social media is buzzing with excitement.

“Dolly at Christmas is like cinnamon and snow,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “It just feels right.”

With over 60 years in the spotlight, Dolly shows no signs of slowing down. From her recent induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to her surprise duet with Miley Cyrus on New Year’s Eve, she continues to reinvent herself while staying true to her roots.

“As long as people want to hear me sing, I’ll keep singing,” she said with a laugh. “Especially if there’s tinsel involved.”

Lighting Up the World

This year’s Christmas at Rockefeller Center will air live on NBC and stream on Peacock, giving fans across the globe a chance to celebrate alongside Dolly. The night promises an unforgettable mix of music, lights, and love — the perfect way to usher in the season.

And when Dolly Parton takes the stage, with snowflakes falling and the Rockefeller tree glowing behind her, one thing is certain: Christmas won’t just sparkle — it will shine.

Because when Dolly sings, the world doesn’t just listen.
It believes again.