New ‘9to5K’ run coming to Nashville to celebrate Dolly Parton’s legacy

Nashville to honor Dolly Parton with inaugural 9to5K Run & Walk.

Dolly Parton passed away last week on August 25, 2026, at the age of 80. Since her passing, fans around the world have mourned her loss while celebrating the legacy she left behind. In her honor, Run Nash’s inaugural 9to5K Run & Walk will bring the Nashville community together on Saturday, September 5, for a celebration of her music, joyful spirit, and commitment to childhood literacy. Parton’s hit song “9 to 5” serves as the inspiration behind the race.

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The race has officially sold out, with approximately 1,600 participants expected to take part. Runners and walkers are encouraged to embrace Parton’s signature style by wearing rhinestones, big hair, or other Dolly-inspired attire.

The event will benefit United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee, the local affiliate of the book-gifting program founded by Parton. She launched the Imagination Library in 1995, inspired by her father, Robert Lee Parton, who was unable to read or write. Parton herself grew up in poverty in rural East Tennessee as one of 12 children. Throughout her life, she consistently used her success to support causes she cared deeply about, particularly children and education in her home state of Tennessee.

Through the Imagination Library, registered children receive one free, age-appropriate book in the mail each month from birth until age five, regardless of their family’s income. Parton wanted children to have access to books in their homes regardless of their financial circumstances.

Participants can further support the organizations through donations made during registration. For more information visit www.runnash.com/events/9-to-5k

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Meredith Courtright

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