It’s officially Dolly Parton Day, a nationwide vibe check for the late Queen of Country. Exactly one month after she passed at 80, states and local communities are paying tribute to her legacy through karaoke, parades, and live music. The date, 9/25, was lowkey chosen as an homage to her iconic single, "9 to 5."

Official honors

California is going all in. Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation last week—sponsored by state senators Shannon Grove and John Laird—to make Dolly Parton Day an annual state event. Newsom noted that the bill is a reminder to be "a diamond in a rhinestone world." Meanwhile, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel signed a proclamation declaring today Dolly Parton Day for 2026. Lawmakers in New York and Pennsylvania are still moving similar measures through committee, so the plot thickens for potential future celebrations there.

How the country is celebrating

Nashville, Dolly’s home since she was 18, is pulling out all the stops. The city unveiled a Dolly-themed license plate, with proceeds supporting her Imagination Library literacy charity, and a massive fireworks show is set for 9:25 p.m. local time. Mayor Freddie O’Connell called the day "bittersweet" while emphasizing Dolly's legacy of kindness.

Elsewhere, the vibes are wholesome:

  • Los Angeles: The county library is hosting "Smarty Pants Storytime" sessions to promote the early literacy skills Dolly championed.
  • New Orleans: The "Krewe of Dolly" is leading a memorial parade through the French Quarter ending at the Jazz Museum.
  • San Francisco: Fans are gathering for a public celebration encouraging everyone to "dress up and be a little kinder than usual."
  • Travel: Southwest Airlines is hosting karaoke for passengers and staff, while Tennessee officials are pushing to rename the airport in her honor.

On the music front, U2 just dropped news of a new album, Carnaval de Luz, which features Dolly’s final vocal performance—a duet with Bono titled "Torn."

Why it matters

Dolly Parton wasn't just a music legend; her work with the Imagination Library provided millions of books to kids globally. By celebrating her today, cities are highlighting that her impact on literacy and her reputation for radical kindness are her true legacy.