Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Announces Special Dolly Parton Tribute — Here’s Who Will Honor the Country Legend and How to Watch

Thanksgiving morning is about to become even more emotional for country music fans.  The 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is preparing a very special tribute to the late Dolly Parton, giving millions of viewers another opportunity to celebrate the life, music, and extraordinary legacy of one of country music’s most beloved icons.

The announcement is especially meaningful for Dolly’s fans, who have continued to honor her following her passing on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. From heartfelt musical performances to public tributes, her influence continues to reach people across generations.

Now, one of America’s biggest Thanksgiving traditions will include a moment dedicated to the woman whose songs have touched millions of hearts.

Megan Hilty Will Honor Dolly Parton During the Historic Parade

NBC and Macy’s have announced that Broadway star Megan Hilty will perform a special tribute to Dolly during this year’s parade.

Hilty is no stranger to the stage. She has built an impressive career as a singer and actress, earning recognition for her performances in several major Broadway productions.

Many fans know her for playing Glinda in Wicked, Annie Oakley in Annie Get Your Gun, and Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. She has also received Tony Award nominations for Noises Off and Death Becomes Her.

But there’s another reason she is particularly well suited for this tribute.

Megan previously portrayed Doralee Rhodes in 9 to 5: The Musical, the stage adaptation of the 1980 movie in which Dolly Parton famously played the same character.

That connection makes this upcoming performance especially fitting. Hilty has already had the opportunity to step into a role closely associated with Dolly, and now she’ll help celebrate the music and legacy of the woman who inspired it.

The 100th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Will Be a Celebration to Remember

This year’s parade is particularly special because it marks the 100th edition of the beloved Thanksgiving tradition.

For generations, families have gathered around their televisions to watch enormous balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and spectacular musical performances make their way through New York City.

The 2026 celebration promises an impressive lineup of entertainment, with appearances from Megan Hilty, Megan Moroney, Queen Latifah, Teddy Swims, Jimmy Fallon and The Roots, Keke Palmer, Leslie Odom Jr., and many more.

But for country music fans, the Dolly Parton tribute will undoubtedly be one of the most anticipated moments of the morning.

How to Watch the Dolly Parton Tribute

If you want to watch this special moment, here’s everything you need to know.

While you’re baking pies and keeping a close eye on the turkey, turn on your TV to catch the tribute to Dolly Parton during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.The parade begins at 8:30 AM in all time zones on Thanksgiving morning (November 26). You can watch the parade live on NBC, Telemundo, or Peacock at that time.

If you miss the live broadcast, you’ll get another chance to watch the parade later in the day. An encore presentation will air at 2 PM ET/PT.

One important detail: The parade’s exact performance order has not been announced, so viewers won’t know precisely when Megan Hilty’s Dolly tribute will appear. You’ll want to tune in from the beginning to avoid missing it.

 

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A Thanksgiving Moment Dedicated to Dolly’s Legacy

Dolly Parton gave the world far more than unforgettable songs. She brought joy, kindness, laughter, and inspiration into the lives of millions of people.

From Jolene and 9 to 5 to I Will Always Love You, her music became part of the soundtrack of countless families and generations.

That’s why this upcoming tribute carries such special meaning. As the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade celebrates its 100th anniversary, it will also make room to remember an extraordinary artist whose influence will never fade.

For her fans, hearing Dolly’s music honored on Thanksgiving morning will be another opportunity to celebrate everything she gave the world.

Some voices never truly leave us. Dolly Parton’s is one of them.