California is officially giving one of country music’s biggest icons her own day. September 25, 2026, has been proclaimed Dolly Parton Day across the state, celebrating the legendary singer, songwriter, philanthropist and lifelong advocate for children and literacy.
And naturally, the date comes with a little Dolly-style wordplay. September 25 is being celebrated as “9-2-5,” a nod to Parton’s iconic 1980 hit “9 to 5.”
Why is California celebrating Dolly Parton?
The new designation comes through Senate Bill 931, jointly authored by California Senators Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) and John Laird (D-Santa Cruz).
The measure recognizes Parton’s extraordinary career while shining a spotlight on the philanthropic work that has become such an important part of her legacy.
“Dolly Parton has a remarkable ability to bring people together,” Senator Grove said, pointing to Parton’s commitment to children and literacy.
And California has plenty of reason to celebrate.
Dolly’s Imagination Library has reached thousands of California kids
While Dolly may be best known for songs like Jolene and 9 to 5, her impact goes far beyond music.
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, children from birth through age five can receive a high-quality book delivered to their homes every month, completely free to their families.
The program has made a major impact in California. Today, more than 182,000 California children are enrolled, and the Imagination Library has full coverage in 45 of the state’s 58 counties.
California was also among the first states to offer a bilingual English-Spanish book option, helping even more families make reading together part of their daily lives.
Dolly has California connections too
Dolly’s connection to the Golden State goes beyond her philanthropic work.
Senator Laird highlighted some of her ties to the Central Coast, including performances at the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles and visits over the years to the famously colorful Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo.
Honestly, a Dolly Parton Day celebration at the Madonna Inn sounds pretty fitting.
How to celebrate Dolly Parton Day
How should Angelenos celebrate Queen Dolly on September 25?
Put on your favorite Dolly playlist. Rewatch 9 to 5. Break out the rhinestones. Or, in honor of her Imagination Library legacy, pick up a book and spend some time reading.
However you celebrate, California’s message is pretty simple: dream big, be kind, and give back.
And on September 25, the entire state has official permission to work “9 to 5” all day long.
