California and Ohio have officially established September 25 as Dolly Parton Day through state legislation and gubernatorial proclamations following the country music icon’s death at age 80. The annual tribute date, 9/25, references her popular hit single “9 to 5,” prompting communities, libraries, and transit systems nationwide to organize parades, literacy events, and musical celebrations.
State Legislation and Proclamations Establish September 25
State governments are codifying the tribute into law. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation last week establishing September 25 as Dolly Parton Day statewide every year. State senators Shannon Grove and John Laird sponsored the bill, designated SB 931, with Grove highlighting Parton’s literacy legacy through the Imagination Library.
“We could all afford to live a little more like Dolly,” Newsom said in a statement provided by the state. “Be kind, be humble and have some fun… Be a diamond in a rhinestone world.”
In Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel signed a proclamation earlier this month recognizing the date for 2026. Meanwhile, lawmakers in New York and Pennsylvania are considering similar measures. New York’s bill remains in a senate committee, while Pennsylvania’s legislation has been referred to a house committee, according to state records. Texas’ Montgomery and Hayes counties also passed similar resolutions.
Nashville and Community Tributes Honor the Singer’s Legacy
Nashville, where Parton lived since she was 18, is hosting some of the largest public events. The city adorned downtown streets with pink lights and posters while distributing stickers, buttons, and bookmarks to residents and tourists.
The Nashville celebration launched with the unveiling of a new Dolly-themed license plate. State officials confirmed that $25 from each plate sold directly supports local Imagination Libraries. A downtown fireworks display is scheduled for 9:25 pm.
“It’s just bittersweet that Dolly isn’t here with us,” Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell said during the kick-off event. “Today isn’t about the music or the fame, it’s about Dolly’s best gift to all of us: her kindness, the way she cared, the depths of her caring and the enduring lessons she taught us about how to care for one another.”
Did you know? Parton’s juvenile literacy charity, the Imagination Library, has provided millions of books to children around the world, inspiring library events like the Los Angeles County Library’s “Smarty Pants Storytime.”
Nationwide Parades, Karaoke, and Musical Releases
Celebrations span multiple states and industries. In New Orleans, the marching group Krewe of Dolly is leading a memorial parade starting at 5 pm, passing through the French Quarter and concluding at the Jazz Museum. San Francisco organizers planned a public gathering called Dolly Day focused on singing and community connection.
Portland City Council President Jamie Dunphy urged local residents to celebrate Parton the way she lived, while Southwest Airlines scheduled a Parton-inspired karaoke event for travelers and employees on Friday. Tennessee state and local officials are also working to rename the local airport after the singer.
On the recording front, U2 announced their new album, Carnaval de Luz, featuring Parton’s final recorded performance. The album closes with “Torn,” a tender duet performed by Parton and Bono about broken family ties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is September 25 chosen as Dolly Parton Day?
The date 9/25 is a numerical tribute to Dolly Parton’s iconic hit single “9 to 5.”
Which states officially recognize Dolly Parton Day?
California established an annual statewide day through legislation signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, and Ohio recognized the date for 2026 via a proclamation from Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel. New York and Pennsylvania are weighing similar bills.
How does the new Nashville license plate support literacy?
Nashville’s Dolly-themed license plate directs $25 from each sale to support local Imagination Libraries, continuing Parton’s childhood literacy mission.
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