Dolly Parton Day Celebrated Worldwide with Parades, Pink Lights and Book Drives

NASHVILLE: Communities across the United States and other parts of the world are marking Dolly Parton Day on Friday, honoring the late country music icon’s contributions to music, philanthropy and literacy.

September 25 was chosen for the annual observance as a reference to Parton’s famous song “9 to 5.” Parton, who died last month at the age of 80, built a decades-long career as a singer-songwriter, actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist.

A growing number of state and local authorities in the United States have designated September 25 as Dolly Parton Day. In Nashville, where Parton lived from the age of 18, the city is marking the occasion with pink lights, posters and commemorative items, including stickers, buttons and bookmarks.

New Orleans is also hosting a parade through the French Quarter led by the Krewe of Dolly, while San Francisco is holding a public event featuring music and activities inspired by Parton’s legacy. Southwest Airlines is also organizing a Parton-themed karaoke event for travelers and employees.

Parton’s commitment to literacy is another major focus of the celebrations. Her Imagination Library programme distributes more than one million books each month to children in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Australia.

The Dollywood Foundation is encouraging people to support local Imagination Library partners or help establish programmes in communities where they are not yet available.

Celebrations are also reflecting Parton’s distinctive style and musical legacy, with fans encouraged to embrace her signature pink-themed fashion, sequins and butterflies while listening to songs including “9 to 5,” “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.”

The observance highlights Parton’s enduring influence beyond entertainment, particularly through her efforts to promote childhood literacy and community support.