Atlanta bar, ‘Jolene Jolene’, raises money for Dolly Parton ‘Imagination Library’

Jolene Jolene in Atlanta’s Kirkwood neighborhood became a gathering place Wednesday night for fans remembering Dolly Parton and raising money for her children’s literacy program.

The bar hosted “Dolly Hour,” a four-hour tribute benefiting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Guests celebrated the singer through themed drinks and outfits while supporting the literacy organization.

One of the night’s featured drinks was the “Dirt Road Martini,” made with vodka, unsweetened iced tea and pickled vegetable brine. Bar owner Chelsea Fishman said she chose the unusual cocktail after looking up Parton’s preferred drink.

“I Googled what her favorite drink was, and it was this Dirt Road Martini, which is just hilarious because it’s so simple, it packs a punch, and it’s just like Dolly, you know?” Fishman said.

Fishman said the bar had a personal connection to Parton long before the tribute. Jolene Jolene was named after a pet, with the name inspired by Parton’s famous song.

The neighborhood quickly embraced the idea of dedicating an evening to the singer. Fishman said the event, held from 5 to 9 p.m., donated all proceeds from the evening to the Imagination Library.

“It only makes sense that when we decided to do this, what we’re calling Dolly Hour from 5 to 9, where 100% of the proceeds are going to Dolly’s Imagination Library, we knew that our community would be on board,” Fishman said.

Fishman also reflected on the loss of the country music icon and the feeling that Parton would always be around.

“Honestly, I always had a dream that Dolly would come here. So, yeah, I mean, the news was heartbreaking, and she felt like someone who was going to live forever.”

Fans attending the event embraced the opportunity to celebrate Parton’s personality and legacy. Stephanie DiLorio, a local resident, arrived in a shimmering sequin outfit that reflected the singer’s signature style.

“I love her confidence, and I love her connection to joy,” DiLorio said. “She’s just so sparkly, like this dress, and really, really happy and really, really kind.”

DiLorio said Parton’s death was difficult to process even though she understood the singer could not live forever.

“I knew she wouldn’t be here forever, but I just maybe wasn’t expecting it and wasn’t ready for it.”

By combining a tribute to Parton with charitable giving, Jolene Jolene gave Atlanta residents a way to mourn, celebrate her legacy and support children’s literacy at the same time.