Dolly Parton day 2026: See full details about 9/25 events across US

September 25, 2026, is officially described as Dolly Parton Day across the United States.

California and dozens of municipalities are honoring the late country music legend on a date chosen as a nod to her iconic hit “9 to 5.”

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB931 into law on September 20, declaring September 25 annually as Dolly Parton Day.

“We could all afford to live a little more like Dolly. Be kind, be humble, and have some fun,” he said.

In Tennessee, her home state, Sevier County officials gathered at the historic courthouse to proclaim September 25 as an annual Dolly Parton Day. Nashville, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg have also announced the date. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal declared it Dolly Patron Appreciation Day, while Portland, Oregon, and two Texas counties joined the celebration.

Events across the US

Maine: The University of Maine at Augusta's radio station, WUMA, will air an all-day musical tribute. "Dolly Tribute Skate" is held at the Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook from 6–9 p.m. A lookalike contest is held at the Rumford Eagles at 8 p.m. The House of Entertainment in Bangor holds the "9 to 5: A Dolly Parton Tribute Variety Show" at 7 p.m. An ugly duckling is held at the Ugly Duckling in Portland from 7–10 p.m.

Tennessee: Proclamation ceremonies and events take place in Nashville, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg.

California: San Francisco celebrates along with Nashville and New Orleans.

Nationwide: The Imagination Library encourages people to make contributions to their local branches. Contributions of just $31 last a whole year.

Dolly Parton died August 25 at the age of 80. “9 to 5” was her first No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit that earned an Oscar nomination and two Grammys.