BROOKFIELD, Conn. — Fields across the United States and Canada are currently displaying large-scale corn mazes depicting the likeness of Dolly Parton, celebrating the late country music legend. Twenty agricultural sites have carved the intricate designs to raise funds for the Imagination Library, a charitable initiative established by Parton that distributes free books to children.
The tribute follows Parton’s passing from cancer on August 25 in Nashville at the age of 80. Her death triggered a widespread outpouring of grief and admiration, ranging from proposals to rename Nashville’s airport in her honor to a significant spike in streaming numbers for her greatest hits, including “9 to 5,” “Islands in the Stream,” and “Jolene.”
The mazes, which feature stylized images of Parton’s signature smile and voluminous hair, are situated in approximately twelve states and two provinces, stretching from Alabama to California and Ohio to Texas. Most locations also include Parton-themed trivia and photo opportunities for visitors.
Brett Herbst, founder of The Maize Inc., a Utah-based company responsible for designing the mazes, described Parton as a “true American treasure.” He noted that her profound impact on global culture and her deep connection to farming give the tributes added significance.
The Maize Inc. stated that the projects were initiated months prior to Parton’s death as part of an annual campaign honoring prominent figures in country music. Previous honorees in the series have included Reba McEntire in 2023, Luke Bryan in 2024, and Lainey Wilson in 2025.
Parton, who overcame poverty during her upbringing in rural Tennessee, expressed gratitude to organizers for their support of her charity before she died. In a statement released by The Maize Inc., she encouraged fans to “get lost in this year’s country music corn maze for a little fun, laughter and a real good reason to get lost.”
At a site in Brookfield, Connecticut, located near Twins BBQ, the massive corn portrait is surrounded by the words “Dolly” and “An American Treasure,” along with a pattern of stars. Danielle Gallop, who co-owns the business with her husband, admitted she had limited knowledge of Parton before attending a corn maze convention at Dollywood, the Tennessee theme park co-owned by the star.
Gallop said her perspective changed after learning about Parton’s business acumen and character.
“They told us all about her integrity and how she ran all of her businesses and how smart and generous and kind and just really ethical and humble” Parton was, Gallop recalled. “Which is all the things that we aspire to be as business owners.”
She added that Parton’s recent passing made the decision to honor her this year “exponentially more meaningful.”
Visitors have responded enthusiastically to the installation. Stephanie Chen and her son William were seen navigating the maze, with Chen joking that the easiest section was the word “DOLLY” because there was only one path through it.
Gallop identified Parton’s elaborate hair as the most challenging part of the design to traverse.
“She has a lot of it, and it comes to little tips,” Gallop said. “You don’t know where the next little opening is going to be. I got lost several times.”
According to Gallop, the most memorable aspect has been observing visitors dress up for the event, with many arriving in cowboy boots, hats, and Dolly Parton apparel, demonstrating the depth of affection for the icon.
Parton’s hair being the hardest part of the maze made me laugh out loud. So accurate!
I’m skeptical about these corporate charity spins, but if the money goes to free books, who am I to complain?
My kids loved the trivia sections! Great family outing that actually teaches something important about reading.
Wait, I thought she was still alive? The article says she passed in August. Hope this isn’t misinformation.
Such a sweet way to celebrate her legacy. Supporting literacy while having fun is exactly what Dolly would want.