On Friday, September 25, towns and cities nationwide are marking Dolly Parton Day, a new observance that celebrates the late country‑music icon’s contributions to music, philanthropy and literacy. Local officials from California to New York have issued proclamations designating the date as an annual tribute, highlighting Parton’s lifelong commitment to reading and community service.
Local celebrations spotlight the queen of country
In Nashville, where Parton lived from age 18, the city will bathe downtown streets in pink lights, distribute stickers, buttons and bookmarks, and host a public karaoke event inspired by the singer. Mayor Freddie O’Connell praised Parton’s impact, saying, “She has shown us that caring for a community means showing up for one another.”
Southwest Airlines announced a Parton‑themed karaoke hour for travelers and staff on the same day, while Tennessee officials are moving forward with plans to rename the state’s primary airport in her honor.
Further south, the Krewe of Dolly will lead a parade through New Orleans’ French Quarter, and San Francisco organizers are planning a “Dolly Day” gathering that encourages residents to sing loudly, dress up in pink and practice extra kindness in her memory.
Literacy drives continue Parton’s Imagination Library mission
Parton’s Imagination Library, a free book‑delivery program for children, distributes more than one million books each month across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Australia. On Dolly Parton Day, the program is urging the public to donate directly to their local Imagination Library partner or help launch a new branch in their community. The Dollywood Foundation directs donors to ImaginationLibrary.com, where a ZIP‑code search locates nearby programs.
“For Dolly, giving was always personal and from her heart,” said Jeff Conyers, president of the Dollywood Foundation. “She believed deeply in helping people, especially children, and she always felt if you are in a position to help, you should help.”
How to join the celebration
Fans can honor Parton by wearing pink or sequined attire, playing her classic hits such as “9 to 5,” “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” or even getting a Dolly‑inspired tattoo. Local businesses in several cities are offering pink‑themed cocktails and special menu items for the day.
Whether attending a parade, donating books, or simply turning on a Dolly Parton album at home, residents are encouraged to remember the singer’s wish that her music and generosity would leave a lasting, positive impact on the world.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
