California, Tennessee, and dozens of US cities declare September 25 as Dolly Parton Day

California became the first state to officially establish September 25 as an annual Dolly Parton Day after Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 931 on September 25. The date references Parton’s 1980 hit song ‘9 to 5.’ Dozens of cities and counties across the US, from Portland to Nashville to New York, have also declared the day to honor Parton, who died in August at age 80 after a short battle with cancer. The celebrations emphasize her philanthropy and kindness rather than just her music career.

Why September 25 became Dolly Parton Day

September 25, written as 9/25, directly references Dolly Parton’s signature song ‘9 to 5,’ which she wrote for the 1980 film of the same name, her big-screen debut alongside Lily Tomlin and Jane Fonda. The date was chosen to create a memorable tie to her most iconic work. Tennessee already recognizes January 19 as her birthday, but the September 25 date allows for a nationwide annual observance tied to the song’s cultural significance.

Which states and cities are participating

California became the first state to officially establish the day through SB 931, signed by Governor Newsom. Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed a proclamation on September 25 designating it as Dolly Parton 9 to 5 Day. Tennessee cities including Nashville, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Pittman Center have declared the day. Portland, Oregon; Manhattan Borough in New York; Hays County and Montgomery County in Texas; and Harford County in Maryland are also recognizing it.

What Dolly Day celebrations included

Nashville kicked off its inaugural Dolly Day at Bridgestone Arena at 9:25 a.m. sharp, with Mayor Freddie O’Connell hosting the event. Activities included performances of ‘9 to 5’ at music venues at 5 p.m., Dolly-themed food and drink specials benefiting charities, pink-lit landmarks, and a downtown fireworks tribute at 9:25 p.m. The Dollywood Foundation launched a ‘Give Like Dolly’ campaign supporting 20 local nonprofits and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which serves over 80,000 children in Oregon alone through free book distribution.

Why Parton’s legacy matters beyond music

Portland’s City Council declaration emphasized Parton’s support for childhood literacy through her Imagination Library. Governor Newsom stated in his proclamation that Parton’s example of kindness, humility, and joy should inspire people to ‘live the way she did, joyfully, graciously, and with a whole lot of heart.’ Sevier County Mayor Bryan McCarter noted that the day encourages residents to give back and support their communities, reflecting Parton’s core values of generosity and connection.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton Day on September 25 has become a nationwide observance in her honor, with California leading as the first state to establish it officially. The celebrations focus on her humanitarian legacy, particularly her Imagination Library, and her message of kindness rather than fame alone.

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