The event begins with check-in at 10:15 a.m. at Mad Water Saloon, followed by a Dolly-themed half-mile walk at 11 a.m. across the Peoria and Galena Avenue bridges. Participants are encouraged to dress as their favorite Dolly and enjoy an afternoon of downtown fun.
Following the walk, participants can visit participating local businesses during a Dolly-themed scavenger hunt or enjoy themed food and drinks downtown. Completed scavenger hunt cards must be returned to Mad Water Saloon by 3 p.m. for a chance to win a Dolly Door Prize.
Registration is $30, and every registration sponsors one Lee County child to receive free, age-appropriate books for an entire year through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
“Dolly Parton’s legacy reaches far beyond her music,” said Ashley Richter, Executive Director of United Way of Lee County. “Her commitment to early childhood literacy has helped children build a love of reading and dream bigger. The Downtown Dolly Stampede gives our community a fun way to celebrate that legacy while helping more Lee County children receive books of their own.”
Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, enrolled children receive a free book in the mail each month from birth until age five. United Way of Lee County serves as the local program partner, raising funds to provide books to children throughout the county.
Community members of all ages are welcome to participate in the Downtown Dolly Stampede. Whether attendees walk, dress up, complete the scavenger hunt, or simply enjoy the downtown festivities, every registration helps place more books into the hands and homes of local children.
Tickets are available at the door or online at:
https://unitedwayofleecounty.org/downtown-dolly-stampede
