Seattle fans will gather in Capitol Hill this Friday evening to remember the life and legacy of country music icon and philanthropist Dolly Parton.
A permitted community vigil is scheduled for 8 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, at the AIDS Memorial Pathway, 920 E. Barbara Bailey Way, near the Capitol Hill light rail station. Organizers say the gathering will happen rain or shine, inviting people to “sing, grieve and show our love for Dolly together,” according to an Instagram post from the Cal Anderson Park Alliance.
Parton, 80, died Tuesday after being diagnosed with cancer, her publicist said.
Her legacy extends well beyond music. Known for her humor, generosity and songwriting, Parton was also a vocal supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. The Human Rights Campaign has highlighted her opposition to attacks against LGBTQ+ people, including her criticism of an anti-transgender bathroom law in North Carolina.
Her philanthropic work also reached Washington. In 2023, Parton brought her Imagination Library program to the state, providing free books every month to children from birth through age 5.
Washington flags will remain at half-staff through September 1 under President Donald Trump’s order, which directed flags at the White House and nationwide to be lowered “as a mark of respect for the memory of Dolly Parton.”
Local fan Francesca Hays organized the Capitol Hill vigil and submitted the event permit with the Cal Anderson Park Alliance, a community-led stewardship group known for events including the annual Capitol Hill Garage Sale.
Hays told The Seattle Times she has distributed flyers throughout the neighborhood and found broad enthusiasm. She said everyone she has spoken with has supported the idea of coming together to celebrate Parton, with all ages, backgrounds, races, gender identities and sexual orientations expressing their love for her.
📍 Dolly Parton community vigil in Capitol Hill
- 📅 Date: Friday, Aug. 28
- ⏰ Time: 8–9 p.m.
- 📍 Location: AIDS Memorial Pathway, 920 E. Barbara Bailey Way
