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Dolly Parton will be honored across Nashville on Friday, September 25, as Music City celebrates its first official Dolly Day. The citywide tribute will feature live music, charitable giving, special food and drink offers, family activities and a fireworks finale downtown.
The celebration follows the death of Parton in August at age 80. Widely regarded as one of Tennessee’s most influential figures, the Queen of Country left a lasting mark through her music, philanthropy, storytelling and commitment to children’s literacy.
Historic Dolly Parton Dolly Day celebrations across Nashville
The date is a playful reference to Parton’s iconic song and film, “9 to 5.” Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell encouraged residents to wear pink, show kindness and support local causes throughout the day.
At 5 p.m., participating music venues across the city are expected to perform “9 to 5” live. The celebration will conclude with fireworks in downtown Nashville beginning at 9:25 p.m., creating a memorable ending to the city’s first Dolly Day.
Several Nashville attractions and businesses are also offering special programming and promotions. Highlights include:
- Centennial Park: Centennial Park Conservancy and Metro Parks will host music, treats and activities focused on giving back.
- Friends in Low Places Bar & Honky-Tonk: Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s Broadway venue plans to donate its entire daily income to children’s literacy and make the event an annual tradition.
- Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum: Visitors can attend a free screening of “9 to 5.” The museum will also offer archival footage, a themed photo opportunity and a butterfly coloring station.
- Nashville Zoo: Guests can find discounted admission, Dolly-inspired animal enrichment, themed food and other activities celebrating Parton’s legacy.
- Broadway venues: TC Restaurant Group locations will offer specialty cocktails, music and charitable initiatives. Participating venues include Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar, Luke’s 32 Bridge, Miranda Lambert’s Casa Rosa, Lainey Wilson’s Bell Bottoms Up, Posty’s Bar and Morgan Wallen’s This Bar & Tennessee Kitchen.
- Metro Nashville Public Libraries: Residents are encouraged to wear pink and celebrate Parton’s love of books. A limited-edition Imagination Library card will be available for Dolly Day.
- Cheekwood: The attraction will offer $9.25 adult admission from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- BNA: Nashville International Airport will host live performances, Dolly-themed karaoke and other activities from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Airport parking garages will also be illuminated in pink.
Powerful Middle Tennessee tributes honor Dolly Parton
The celebration extends beyond Nashville. Watkins Park Library will host story time, crafts, a photo booth, a dance party, a movie, a sing-along and refreshments. At Middle Tennessee State University, the Honors Bell Tower will play “9 to 5” at 11:35 a.m. in a tribute led by Angela Tipps of the School of Music.
Brentwood will honor Parton with a free outdoor screening of her 1989 film “Steel Magnolias” at Crockett Park beginning at 8 p.m.
Other permanent and long-term tributes are also taking shape. The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority recently voted 6-0 to begin the process of modifying Nashville International Airport’s name in Parton’s honor. Officials said a final name has not been chosen and that additional plans will be announced in the coming months.
At Centennial Park, Metro Parks and the Centennial Park Conservancy dedicated a memorial bench near the Sunken Garden. The tribute recognizes Parton’s connection to the park, her contributions to Nashville and her lifelong support for inspiring children to read, dream and imagine.
Nashville has also been selected as one of two cities scheduled to host DOLLYFEST in 2027. The other location is London, England. Organizers described the planned event as a global celebration of Parton’s music and legacy.
Why Dolly Day matters to Nashville
For Nashville, Dolly Day is more than a collection of concerts and promotions. The events reflect the values Parton frequently championed: literacy, generosity, creativity and community. Contributions connected to the celebration will support causes including the Imagination Library, a program that provides books to children.
With live performances at 5 p.m. and fireworks at 9:25 p.m., residents and visitors will have opportunities to celebrate throughout the day. Organizers are encouraging attendees to plan ahead, check individual event schedules and wear pink in honor of one of Tennessee’s most beloved cultural icons.
Frequently asked questions about Dolly Parton Dolly Day
When is Dolly Day in Nashville?
Nashville’s official Dolly Day takes place on September 25. The date references Dolly Parton’s famous song and film, “9 to 5.”
When will the Dolly Day fireworks begin?
The downtown Nashville fireworks are scheduled to begin at 9:25 p.m. on September 25.
What happens at 5 p.m. on Dolly Day?
Participating Nashville music venues are expected to perform “9 to 5” live at 5 p.m.
How can people support Dolly Parton’s causes?
Residents can donate to local organizations, support children’s literacy initiatives and participate in events benefiting the Imagination Library and other community causes.
What should visitors wear for Dolly Day?
Mayor Freddie O’Connell encouraged residents and visitors to wear pink as part of the citywide celebration.
