A nod to '9 to 5,' San Francisco celebrates first-ever Dolly Parton Day
SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Fans of Dolly Parton gathered in Union Square on Friday to celebrate the first-ever Dolly Day, honoring the singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist following her death last month. California officially declared Sept. 25, or 9/25, as a day to remember Parton.
The event featured line dancing, look-alike competitions and singalongs as attendees paid tribute to Parton's life and legacy.
"I go, oh my God, Kathy, they're having the Dolly Parton dedication here," one attendee said. "Let's go!"
Many participants said Parton's music and personality have had a lasting impact on their lives.
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"No matter what you're feeling, there's a Dolly song," said Dante Olivarez.
For some attendees, the celebration was also a chance to embrace the style and confidence Parton embodied.
"I got the big eyelashes, the big nails, the big hair, everything. I've been following her for years and you know what I love about her? She was a role model for a lot of women," said Kathy Mendez of the East Bay.
The celebration also highlighted one of Parton's best-known philanthropic efforts: promoting childhood literacy.
"My mom did not want to name me Dolly, but my dad is a big fan," Chief of Public Services for the San Francisco Public Library Dolly Goyal said.
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Through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, children in San Francisco can receive one free book each month either in person or through mail until they turn 5 years old.
All they have to do is sign up.
"We have distributed over 11,000 books and mailed over 64,000 books, and some in English and Spanish. And that's all because of Dolly and her love of literacy," Goyal said.
Parton's influence extends far beyond music and entertainment through programs that continue to benefit families and children.
"Dolly Parton is one of a kind. And so she will be definitely a legacy for our city, but also for the whole nation and the world really," Goyal said.
