About Dolly Parton Day
Few figures in American pop culture have shared as much joy, warmth, and genuine goodwill with the world as Dolly Parton.
From her humble beginnings in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to her status as a global country music icon, author, businesswoman, and philanthropist, Dolly won hearts across generations.
Celebrated annually on September 25th—a nod to the 9/25 date format honoring her classic working-class anthem and film, 9 to 5—Dolly Parton Day provides the ultimate opportunity to celebrate her artistry, wit, and boundless generosity.
What Is Dolly Parton Day?
Dolly Parton Day is an observance dedicated to recognizing the music, humor, and immense humanitarian footprint of the Queen of Country.
While various communities and organizations have honored Dolly on different dates over the years, September 25th holds a uniquely charming significance. In month-day notation, 9/25 mirrors the rhythm of Dolly's 1980 crossover smash hit "9 to 5," a song that turned everyday office frustrations into an uplifting, foot-tapping celebration of the working person.
Above all, this observance shines a spotlight on the values Dolly embodied throughout her entire career: radical kindness, humility, inclusion, and uplifting those who need it most.
Did you know? Dolly famously found the rhythmic beat for "9 to 5" while on set by clicking her acrylic fingernails together to imitate the sound of office typewriters.
Did you know? On a single prolific day in 1973, Dolly Parton wrote both "Jolene" and "I Will Always Love You"—two of the most celebrated songs in modern music history.
Did you know? Through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, founded in 1995 to honor her father who was unable to read or write, her foundation has gifted more than 200 million free books to children worldwide.
Remembering Dolly Parton on Dolly Parton Day
The celebration takes on an especially poignant and reverent meaning following Dolly Parton's passing on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80.
The beloved singer-songwriter and humanitarian departed peacefully surrounded by family in Nashville, Tennessee, leaving behind a profound worldwide legacy that spanned more than six decades of unforgettable music, storytelling, and charitable giving.
Dolly Parton Day now serves as a heartfelt global moment of remembrance, allowing fans, musicians, and communities around the world to unite, celebrate her memory, and ensure that her spirit of generosity and love continues to shine brightly.
How to Celebrate Dolly Parton Day
Whether you have listened to her records for decades or are simply inspired by her enormous heart and quick wit, there are plenty of wonderful ways to take part in the festivities:
Blast the Dolly Discography: Cue up a playlist featuring classics like "Jolene," "Coat of Many Colors," "Islands in the Stream," "Here You Come Again," and of course, "9 to 5".
Support Childhood Literacy: Honor Dolly's philanthropic mission by donating to Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, giving books to a local school, or volunteering at your neighborhood library.
Host a Movie Marathon: Settle in with friends and family to watch the 1980 comedy classic 9 to 5, Steel Magnolias, or The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.
Dress in Rhinestones and Big Hair: Embrace Dolly's iconic glamour and fun personality by wearing your favorite pair of cowboy boots, denim, and plenty of sparkles.
Perform a Random Act of Kindness: Dolly was legendary for treating everyone she met like family. Pay for a stranger's morning coffee, send a sweet note to a coworker, or lend a helping hand in your community.
The Enduring Legacy of Dolly Parton Day
Dolly Parton always proved that staying true to who you are never means putting a ceiling on your dreams. When September 25th rolls around each year, pour yourself a "cup of ambition," turn the music up loud, and share a little extra sparkle and kindness in her honor.
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