SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) — California Gov. Gavin Newsom officially signed Dolly Parton Day into law on Sunday in honor of the late country star.
Dolly Parton Day will be on Sept. 25 in honor of Parton’s beloved song, “9 to 5.”
Parton was 80 when she died on Aug. 25 after “bravely facing a brief battle with cancer,” according to her representative.
Parton, dubbed the “Queen of Country,” was one of the most successful country music performers in history, selling more than 100 million records worldwide.
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Parton was also beloved for her philanthropy. Through her nonprofit Dollywood Foundation, “Saint Dolly,” as her fans dubbed her, supported education by providing scholarships and financial assistance to people in need.
“Dolly Parton sparkled on every stage she ever stood on, but her brightest sparkle was the literacy legacy she built through the Imagination Library,” said State Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) in a press release.
Grove helped pen the bill, SB 931, with State Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz).
“The love Dolly gave so freely, rooted in her deep and openly shared faith, and the love the world returned to her, shows how deeply she was cherished by everyone… every September 25th, our state will remember the legend who put millions of books in the hands of our youngest readers and inspired the world on how to respect and love one another,” Grove’s statement continued.
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A free outdoor festival will be held in San Francisco’s Union Square on Friday to celebrate Dolly Parton Day.
Organizers say “Dolly Day” is designed as a joyful gathering rather than a somber remembrance. It will feature live music, vendors and “all-out glam in the heart of the city.”
Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in cowboy hats, sparkles, fringe and big hair.
Associated Press contributed to this report.
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