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California has celebrated its inaugural Dolly Parton Day, with fans gathering in San Francisco and an official tribute recognising her music and children’s literacy work.
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California marked its first Dolly Parton Day on 25 September 2026, honouring the country singer’s music and support for children’s literacy. Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed the inaugural observance in an official tribute to her work and generosity. [1]
Hundreds of fans gathered in San Francisco’s Union Square for a celebration featuring local performers, dancing and a Parton lookalike contest, CBS San Francisco reported. [2]
The celebration came a month after Parton’s death: CBS reported that she died on 25 August, aged 80, after a brief battle with cancer. [2]
The September date carries a musical reference. Newsom’s proclamation presents it as “9-2-5”, a nod to Parton’s song ‘9 to 5’. It also recognises ‘I Will Always Love You’, which Whitney Houston later covered to global acclaim. [1]
CBS reported that Newsom had signed Senate Bill 931 the previous week to designate 25 September as Dolly Parton Day. The broadcaster identified Republican senator Shannon Grove of Bakersfield and Democratic senator John Laird of Santa Cruz as co-sponsors. [2]
Newsom also highlighted Parton’s Imagination Library, which sends free books to registered children from birth to age five. His proclamation says California partners with the programme and was among the first states to offer a bilingual option. He urged people to honour her with kindness, generosity and fun. [1]
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