Dolly Parton Played the Iowa State Fair Three Times in Her Career

The culture is still in collective mourning following the death of Dolly Parton last week at the age of 80. One of the most popular and beloved celebrities of all-time, Dolly transcended the already seismic heights of a singer-songwriter and became a fixture in America, especially considering her incredible philanthropic efforts.

In celebration of the woman who felt like the matriarch of America, KCCI published a piece recalling the three times Dolly Parton performed at the Iowa State Fair. Not only did she bring crowds of thousands to their feet, she did so with some pretty outstanding luminaries.

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A Look Back at Dolly Parton's Three State Fair Performances:

Parton first played the Grandstand in 1970 alongside her long-time collaborator Porter Wagoner, who helped launch her career, Faron Young, and The Deputies. She returned as a solo act in 1977 and 1982, where she drew crowds of 6,100 and 8,200, respectively, per KCCI.

Her 1977 performance was billed as "a rarity — a studio-perfect outdoor performance" by The Des Moines Register, high-praise for a concert regardless of era. She took to the stage to perform such staples of her discography as "Jolene," "Tennessee Mountain Home," "Coat of Many Colors" (my personal favorite), and others.

Her 1982 show was capped off by two separate standing ovations as well, per KCCI.

Parton's death hit millions so hard because she was an embodiment of unabashed good in this world. Like Fred Rogers or Betty White, she was beloved across multiple generations, gave people the gift of hope and joy through her music and philanthropic efforts (such as her global Imagination Library, which delivers books to kids across the world), and continued to work with and support many modern artists, including Sabrina Carpenter.

Read more about the three times Dolly Parton took the stage at the Iowa State Fair on KCCI's website.