Texas has proclaimed 25 September 2026 as Dolly Parton Day, honouring the late country music star’s contribution to children’s literacy and philanthropy.
Governor Greg Abbott and first lady Cecilia Abbott have also described the observance as “9 to 5 Day”, a reference to one of Parton’s best-known songs. The date falls exactly one month after her death on 25 August, aged 80.
“Our nation lost a bright light with the passing of the ‘Queen of Country,’ Dolly Parton,” Mr Abbott said in the proclamation.
The declaration recognises Parton’s six-decade music career as well as her humanitarian work, particularly Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The programme sends free books to children from birth to the age of five, with the aim of encouraging early reading and a lifelong love of books.
Dolly Parton Day highlights Texas literacy programme
More than 74,500 children in Texas currently receive books through the Imagination Library, according to the Dollywood Foundation. More than 70 local partners run programmes across 90 counties in the state.
Mr Abbott said Parton’s philanthropy had “empowered people”, adding that the Imagination Library was created to support early literacy and inspire children to read.
25 September is also being marked as Give Like Dolly Day, an annual event supporting local Imagination Library schemes. The Dollywood Foundation announced the international tradition earlier this month as a way to continue Parton’s focus on generosity and children’s welfare.
The governor and Cecilia Abbott have encouraged Texans to mark Dolly Parton Day, or “9 to 5 Day”, by taking part in activities connected with the singer’s legacy and supporting libraries and community organisations that provide books to children.
