Dolly Parton Embraces Christmas Spirit as "Granny Claus" and Donates $1 Million for Hurricane Relief

Dolly Parton is gearing up for Christmas, embracing her role as "Granny Claus." In a recent interview with Good Housekeeping UK, she revealed her festive traditions, saying she goes all out each year. "I dress up as Santa and come down the chimney with my sack full of gifts," she explained. Even though many of the children are now adults, they still expect her to keep the tradition alive. "One day, I’ll be hobbling in that elevator!" she joked.

At 78, Parton doesn’t have children with her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, but she finds joy in sharing love with others. "Now that I’m older, I realize I didn’t have kids of my own, so everybody’s kids can be mine," she said in a 2018 interview with PEOPLE. "I want to empower children and give them confidence."

Inside her home, Parton creates a winter wonderland filled with decorations, while she keeps the exterior more subtle for visiting tourists. "I keep it less flashy outside, but inside, I can go all out!" she added. "I have Christmas trees in every room, lights everywhere, and I keep adding more."

Her festive spirit extends to her wardrobe. "I have Christmas lights in my hair and everywhere else," she said, noting her light-up earrings and sweaters. In 2023, she posted on Instagram showcasing her holiday outfits through the years, saying, "I'm always in costume on Christmas."

Recently, Parton made headlines for her generosity, donating $1 million to support Hurricane Helene relief in her home state of Tennessee. The donation, made in collaboration with local businesses and Walmart, aims to help those affected by the disaster. "I wish we were together for a different reason, but we’ve all seen the devastation," she remarked. "These are my mountains, valleys, and rivers, and these are my people."