National Dolly Parton Day
National Dolly Parton Day brings a free evening of music, film, and celebration to the REACH at the Kennedy Center. The program honors Dolly Parton’s legacy as a Kennedy Center Honoree and cultural icon, whose seven-decade career spans singing, songwriting, acting, writing, philanthropy, and more. The celebration also highlights her status as a member of both the Country Music Hall of Fame and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, with 11 Grammy Awards and beloved songs such as “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5.”
The evening includes a live performance by Nashville-based singer-songwriter Leah Crose, a special presentation about Parton’s Kennedy Center Honors legacy, and an outdoor screening of the classic comedy film *9 to 5*. Guests are encouraged to embrace Dolly-inspired style with rhinestones, fringe, big hair, boots, and other glittering attire.
When: Friday, September 25, 2026.
Showtimes: The outdoor film screening begins at dusk. The page does not provide a more specific start time for the presentation or live performance.
Program: The event features a presentation celebrating Dolly Parton’s Kennedy Center Honors legacy, a live set by Leah Crose, and an outdoor screening of *9 to 5*.
Film: *9 to 5* stars Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin as three secretaries who push back against a male-dominated workplace and attempt to transform it into a model office, with their plan becoming increasingly chaotic.
Lineup: Leah Crose is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter from Ohio known for heartfelt songwriting, captivating vocals, and energetic live performances.
Tickets: Free. No tickets or registration are required for the event on the REACH Lawn.
Venue: The REACH Lawn and REACH Video Wall at the Kennedy Center.
Ages: No age restriction is listed.
Accessibility: A limited number of seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis for guests with disabilities.
What to Bring: Guests may bring their own blankets and chairs. Personal chairs must be no taller than 36 inches.
Food and Drink: Concessions and beverages will be available for purchase on-site. Guests may bring a picnic to the REACH’s outdoor spaces during non-event times, but coolers must be 16 quarts or smaller. Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
Weather Note: The website should be checked on the day of the event for possible cancellation or location changes because of inclement weather, including rain or heat advisories.
Dress: Dolly-inspired outfits are encouraged, including rhinestones, fringe, boots, and big hair.