The state of Tennessee has proclaimed that tomorrow, January 19, is Dolly Parton Day to celebrate the country legend’s 80th birthday.
Governor Bill Lee signed the proclamation Sunday declaring that January 19, 2026 would be Dolly Parton Day in the Volunteer State to “to honor the life, legacy, and extraordinary contributions of Tennessee’s favorite daughter.”
“Dolly Parton’s life and career is woven into Tennessee’s music, culture, and rich history,” Gov. Lee said in a statement. “Her talent and generosity have made a lasting impact on the world, and it is fitting that we honor her 80th birthday by celebrating her remarkable legacy and dedication to the Volunteer State.”
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“In addition to her artistic achievements, Parton is known for her lifelong commitment to service and philanthropy. Through the Dollywood Foundation and the Imagination Library, she has helped provide hundreds of millions of free books to children around the world, promoting literacy and empowering children to reach their full potential,” the state of Tennessee said in a release Sunday
“The proclamation recognizes Parton’s lifetime of achievement, service, and positive influence, and encourages all Tennesseans to join in celebrating her enduring contributions.”
Parton gave fans an early birthday present this week with a new rendition of her 1977 ballad “Light of a Clear Blue Morning,” with Miley Cyrus, Queen Latifah, Lainey Wilson, and Reba McEntire joining her on the recording.
“As I celebrate my 80th birthday, this new version is my way of using what I’ve been blessed with to shine a little light forward, especially by sharing it with some truly incredible women,” Parton said in a statement when the song came out. Net proceeds from the recording will benefit pediatric cancer research at Nashville’s Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

