{
  "id": 4935830,
  "title": "Dolly Parton to Be Honored With Corn Mazes Across North America Benefiting Her Imagination Library",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/dolly-parton-to-be-honored-with-corn-mazes-across-north-america",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-01T20:23:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Billboard",
    "slug": "billboard",
    "url": "https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/dolly-parton-corn-mazes-benefit-imagination-library-1236330364/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Twenty farms in the United States and Canada are set to open corn mazes this fall, each uniquely designed in tribute to country music icon Dolly Parton and her beloved Imagination Library. The ambitious project, spearheaded by The Maize Inc., a leading agritourism firm, involves mazes spread across 15 states and two Canadian provinces. Collaborating with these farms, a significant portion of the maze profits will be donated to Parton's Imagination Library, a program that has distributed over 304 million books to children since its inception in 1995.\n\nDolly Parton, who passed away on August 25th at the age of 80, had been deeply involved with farming, as noted by her family who emphasized her passion for \"songs and happiness.\" In a moving statement following her death, Parton herself expressed her enthusiasm for the corn maze campaign, which she believes is a perfect blend of fun, laughter, and a noble cause. The maze attractions are not just about navigating a maze; they are imbued with interactive games, Dolly-themed photo opportunities, storytelling, music, and seasonal activities. This year's campaign coincides with the 31st anniversary of the Imagination Library, making it a fitting tribute to Parton’s enduring legacy.\n\nThe Maize Inc.’s founder, Brett Herbst, expressed profound humility in honoring Parton’s legacy, acknowledging her monumental impact on the world and her unwavering support for farming. The 20 unique corn mazes, featuring individual designs inspired by Parton’s music and philanthropic endeavors, stand as a testament to her influence, extending beyond the realm of country music.",
  "summary": "The 20 installations span 15 states and two Canadian provinces, with each maze featuring its own Dolly-inspired design.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Billboard",
        "title": "Read the Beautiful Letter Dolly Parton Sent to Imagination Library Graduates: ‘There Is No Limit to What You Can Do’",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/01/read-the-beautiful-letter-dolly-parton-sent-to-imagination-library",
        "published": "2026-09-01T13:17:20.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}