Nashville will come together this weekend to celebrate the music, spirit and enduring legacy of Dolly Parton with the inaugural 9to5K Run & Walk, taking place Saturday, September 5, 2026, on Music Row.
The community event, organized by Run Nash, will honor Parton while supporting one of the causes closest to her heart: childhood literacy. The sold-out event is expected to draw more than 1,600 runners and walkers for a morning filled with music, Dolly-inspired fashion, family activities and plenty of Nashville spirit.
The event takes place following Parton’s passing last week, making the inaugural race an especially meaningful opportunity for the Nashville community to celebrate her remarkable life and legacy.
Proceeds and optional donations made during registration will benefit United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee, the local affiliate of Parton’s beloved book-gifting program.
A Celebration of Dolly’s Legacy
Parton founded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 1995 with the goal of encouraging a lifelong love of reading among young children. The program provides free, age-appropriate books to children from birth through age five, regardless of their family’s income.
The 9to5K will help support the continued expansion of Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee while also benefiting United Way of Greater Nashville’s efforts to strengthen children, families and communities throughout the region.
The timing of the event is particularly fitting as Nashville recognizes September as Imagination Library Month. Mayor Freddie O’Connell issued the proclamation last week during a celebration of Parton’s literary legacy at the Nashville Public Library’s Main Library.
From Music Row to the Finish Line
The inaugural 9to5K will feature a new 5K course through the heart of Music Row, giving participants a distinctly Nashville backdrop for the morning.
The festivities will begin at Music Circle South, where the 5K, Dolly Dash Kids Run and Stiletto Dash will get underway. Tony Rose Park will serve as the hub for packet pickup, the Finish Line Festival, costume contest and awards.
The event schedule includes:
- 6:30 a.m. – Packet pickup opens
- 7:30 a.m. – 9to5K begins
- 7:30–10:30 a.m. – Finish Line Festival
- 8:30 a.m. – Dolly Dash Kids Run
- 8:45 a.m. – Stiletto Dash
- 9 a.m. – Costume contest and awards
The morning is designed to be about much more than running. Participants and spectators can expect themed photo opportunities, finish-line entertainment and a festive atmosphere celebrating one of Nashville’s most iconic artists.
Dress Like Dolly
For those participating, traditional running attire is certainly welcome — but Dolly-inspired fashion is encouraged. Participants are invited to embrace Parton’s signature style with rhinestones, big hair, business suits and other Dolly-inspired looks. A costume contest will give participants another opportunity to show off their creativity.
The Stiletto Dash promises to be another highlight, with 50 participants expected to take part, including five men.
The combination of music, fashion, fitness and philanthropy makes the event feel uniquely Nashville while providing plenty of opportunities for colorful photos and memorable moments.
Supporting Childhood Literacy
At the heart of the celebration is a cause that has been central to Parton’s legacy for more than three decades. Through Imagination Library, millions of books have been distributed to children around the world. The Middle Tennessee program continues that mission locally, helping ensure children have access to books during their earliest years.
Funds raised through the 9to5K will help expand access to books for children throughout Middle Tennessee, regardless of family income. For Nashville, the race offers a chance to celebrate Parton not only as a legendary musician and entertainer, but also as an advocate for children, education and literacy.