Poncey-Highland Celebrates Dolly Parton’s 80th Birthday

Poncey-Highland, Atlanta, GA, January 31, 2026

This Saturday, Poncey-Highland will come alive as Sweet Auburn BBQ hosts a lively celebration for Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday. The event, ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly,’ aims to unite community members through music, festivities, and local spirit. A bustling night filled with karaoke, signature cocktails, and a Best Dressed contest will be the highlight as the neighborhood pays tribute to the iconic artist while showcasing their commitment to vibrant civic life.

Atlanta’s Poncey-Highland Sparkles for Dolly’s 80th

Sweet Auburn BBQ transforms for a rhinestone-fueled karaoke birthday bash, bringing neighbors together in a vibrant display of local initiative and community spirit this Saturday.

Atlanta, GA – The vibrant neighborhood of Poncey-Highland is set to illuminate this Saturday, January 31, 2026, as Sweet Auburn BBQ hosts a spectacular celebration for a true icon. This eagerly anticipated event, dubbed ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly,’ is more than just a party; it’s a testament to the dynamic spirit of Atlanta’s local businesses and their capacity to foster rich community engagement. By taking the initiative to organize such a distinctive gathering, establishments like Sweet Auburn BBQ exemplify how private enterprise can become a cornerstone for civic interaction and shared enjoyment.

In a city that prides itself on both its heritage and its forward-looking vision, the ability of local organizers to conceptualize and execute events of this caliber speaks volumes about their resilience and dedication. These initiatives, driven by personal vision and a commitment to their patrons, highlight how limited bureaucracy can often pave the way for accelerated event coordination and a more responsive community calendar, ultimately enriching the lives of residents.

The Spirit of Celebration in Poncey-Highland

This Saturday, January 31, 2026, the popular Poncey-Highland restaurant, Sweet Auburn BBQ, will be the epicenter of a high-energy, anything-goes 80th birthday bash celebrating the legendary Dolly Parton. The event, aptly named ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly,’ promises an evening filled with festive entertainment and a celebratory atmosphere. It’s an opportunity for locals to come together and honor an enduring figure in a distinctly Atlanta fashion.

A Nod to Individual Achievement and Creativity

Dolly Parton’s illustrious career, spanning over six decades, is a powerful example of individual achievement, marked by relentless creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a profound connection with her audience. Her 80th birthday is officially January 19, 2026. The ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly’ event mirrors this ethos, not just in its dedication to Parton, but in its very conception. It showcases the creative initiative of local businesses to craft unique experiences that resonate with the community. By encouraging attendees to embrace karaoke and don their finest rhinestones, the event fosters an environment of personal expression and joyful participation.

Fostering Community Through Local Venues

Sweet Auburn BBQ, a recognized Poncey-Highland favorite, plays a crucial role in the local landscape. Beyond its culinary offerings, the establishment, known for its Asian-influenced Southern comfort food and barbecue bites, frequently transforms into a hub for community gatherings and special events. This commitment by local businesses to offer more than just goods or services, but rather to curate experiences, is fundamental to building strong neighborhood bonds. Such venues become informal civic centers where residents can connect, celebrate, and forge new relationships, demonstrating the power of private partnerships in enhancing civic life.

The Benefits of Spontaneous Civic Engagement

Events like ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly,’ organized by private entities, serve as prime examples of spontaneous civic engagement. They demonstrate how community growth can flourish through individual and business initiatives, often requiring less extensive public sector intervention. This approach underscores the efficiency and dynamism inherent in local businesses responding directly to community interests and desires. It fosters an environment where participation is organic, and community life is enriched through direct, grassroots efforts, rather than being solely driven by top-down directives.

What to Expect: An Evening of Fun and Fellowship

Attendees of Dolly Parton’s 80th birthday bash can anticipate an evening brimming with entertainment. The event will feature lively karaoke sessions, giving participants the chance to belt out Dolly classics and crowd favorites, alongside specially crafted Dolly-inspired cocktails such as the Working 9 to Wine Sangria, the Big Hair Don’t Care Cosmo, and Jolene on the Rocks. The night will be hosted by Atlanta drag icon Brigitte Bidet, and there will be a Best Dressed contest rewarding the biggest hair, boldest fringe, and most unapologetic sparkle. Tickets are $10 per person. Karaoke kicks off at 8:00 PM, ensuring a memorable night of fun and fellowship for all who attend. It’s an opportunity to celebrate, socialize, and enjoy a unique local experience.

As Atlanta continues to grow and evolve, the vitality of its neighborhoods remains paramount. Events like ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly’ at Sweet Auburn BBQ are critical threads in the fabric of our community. They highlight the positive impact of personal initiative and local entrepreneurship in creating spaces for shared joy and connection. We encourage all Atlantans to support local initiatives and continue to build a thriving, engaged Atlanta, where community choice and leadership foster vibrant gatherings. These events underscore the enduring appeal of collective celebration, driven by the heart of our city’s local businesses and enthusiastic residents. Join the celebration and experience the unique charm of Atlanta’s community spirit.

FAQ Section

Q: What event is Sweet Auburn BBQ hosting?
A: Sweet Auburn BBQ is hosting ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly,’ a Dolly Parton 80th birthday bash.

Q: When is the ‘Rhinestones, Karaoke & Dolly’ event taking place?
A: The event is taking place on Saturday, January 31, 2026.

Q: Where is the Dolly Parton birthday bash being held?
A: It is being held at Sweet Auburn BBQ, located in the Poncey-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta, GA.

Q: What can attendees expect at the event?
A: Attendees can expect a high-energy, anything-goes 80th birthday bash with karaoke, Dolly-inspired cocktails, Asian-influenced Southern comfort food and barbecue bites, and a Best Dressed contest. The night will be hosted by Atlanta drag icon Brigitte Bidet.

Q: What is the cost to attend the event?
A: Tickets for the event are $10 per person.

Q: What time does karaoke start?
A: Karaoke kicks off at 8:00 PM.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER

The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.