Spirit Fest 2026 will bring an afternoon of live music, family fun and plenty of rhinestones to downtown Grundy on Saturday, Sept. 12.
The free community celebration will feature three musical performances from 12:30 to 7 p.m., followed by a Dolly Parton look-alike contest open to participants of all ages.
Cody Hagerman and Still Pickin’ will open the festival, performing from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. Ralph Stanley II and the Clinch Mountain Boys will take the stage from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
From the Edge will close the festival’s musical lineup with a performance from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
At 4 p.m., contestants will break out their rhinestones, patchwork outfits and gravity-defying hairstyles for the Dolly Parton Look-Alike Contest in front of the stage.
The multigenerational contest will feature four categories: Coat of Many Colors, recognizing the best handmade and patchwork outfit; The True Dolly, honoring the participant who best captures Parton’s overall spirit and style; Biggest Hair; and Rhinestones and Glam, celebrating Western-inspired fashion and sparkle.
First-, second- and third-place ribbons will be awarded in each category. The overall Grand Dolly Champion will receive a crown and a $100 cash prize.
Entry is free. Participants may complete an official registration form and return it to the Grundy Town Office by Friday, Sept. 11. Contestants may also register at the Town of Grundy booth during Spirit Fest until 3 p.m.
Presented by the Community Arts Council, Spirit Fest gives residents and visitors an opportunity to gather in the heart of Grundy and enjoy an afternoon of live entertainment at no cost. The public is invited to attend.
