America Celebrates Dolly Parton Day With Music, Books And A Little Rhinestone Sparkle

September 25 looks like 9/25 on the calendar. For Dolly Parton fans, that makes it a natural day to remember “9 to 5” — and the woman whose songs, generosity and unmistakable sparkle reached far beyond the stage.

California has established September 25 as Dolly Parton Day, with Governor Gavin Newsom signing the legislation on September 20. Portland, Oregon, has also proclaimed Dolly Parton Day for September 25, inviting residents to celebrate her music and carry forward her spirit of kindness and service.

The tributes come one month after Parton’s death on August 25 at age 80. They make room for grief while celebrating the joy she gave so freely. In Portland, the proclamation was marked with a musical performance and a representative of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library — a fitting reminder that her legacy lives in the stories children get to take home.

Parton founded the Imagination Library in 1995. It has now distributed more than 300 million free books to children around the world. The idea grew from her father’s experience of being unable to read or write, and it became one of the most enduring expressions of her belief in giving children a chance to dream.

There is no single way to mark Dolly Parton Day. Put on a favorite song, read with a child, help a neighbor, or simply bring a little more kindness into someone’s day. The date may be a clever nod to “9 to 5,” but what it honors can last all year.

Sources

• California Governor announcement
• Portland city proclamation