Dolly Parton Day prompted widespread celebrations across the United States today as communities marked September 25 with tributes to the late country music star. The date, chosen for its numerical link to her 1980 hit "9 to 5," drew events focused on her enduring influence in music, entertainment, and philanthropy.

Dolly Parton passed away on August 25 at age 80. Her death prompted renewed appreciation for her career spanning decades, including iconic songs and her founding of the Imagination Library, which provides free books to children.

California became the first state to establish September 25 as an annual Dolly Parton Day through legislation signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 20. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a proclamation designating the day for 2026. Additional recognitions came from cities including Nashville, New Orleans, San Francisco, Lexington, Kentucky, and Manhattan.

Nashville hosted one of the largest observances. Officials encouraged residents to wear pink, perform acts of kindness, and play "9 to 5" at 5 p.m. local time. Fireworks lit up downtown at 9:25 p.m. Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood directed proceeds from their Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky-Tonk to the Nashville Public Library and the Imagination Library. The Country Music Hall of Fame offered a free screening of the "9 to 5" film.

In New Orleans, the Krewe of Dolly led a parade through the French Quarter starting at 5 p.m., complete with costumes and fundraising for the Imagination Library. San Francisco held a public gathering in Union Square featuring live music and calls for attendees to dress in Parton-inspired attire. Other locales organized book drives, musical performances, and pink lighting displays on landmarks.

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued a proclamation for "Dolly Parton 9 to 5 Day," highlighting her roots in East Tennessee and her example of determination and generosity. Musicians On Call brought performances inspired by Parton to hospitals in multiple cities.

The observances emphasized Parton's self-made success and commitment to literacy programs that have distributed millions of books nationwide. Events continued into the evening in many locations.