Dolly Parton made local impact for thousands

Dolly Parton wowed an arena full of 8,500 Winnipeg fans on Sept. 12, 2016, during her swan song performance in the city. The iconic country singer made her final local appearance at the event, leaving fans in awe of her energy and authenticity on stage. Free Press reporter Erin Lebar gave Parton's performance a glowing review, commending her ability to convey genuine emotion in every note and laugh.

Parton, then 70 years old, expressed her determination to continue performing despite the physical challenges of her rigorous tour schedule, stating that she plans to keep doing what she loves for as long as possible. The country music icon's impact in Winnipeg extended beyond live shows; in 2025, a custom bowl she created and donated to an Empty Bowls fundraiser raised $1.4 million for the local food bank.

Parton also started the Imagination Library in 2013, a charitable literacy program that has been providing books to children in Manitoba's First Nations communities since 2013, reflecting her commitment to education and community support.