Join us as we gather for the 2026 OWP Gala—an evening of connection and celebration. The donations generated this evening go directly to support the OPALGA+ Scholarship Fund, helping local Chicagoland students achieve their educational goals!
Join us for the 2026 OPALGA+ Gala on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Nineteenth Century Club in Oak Park, IL. This unforgettable evening will feature a cocktail reception, seated dinner, silent & live auctions, and vibrant entertainment—all in celebration of LGBTQ+ advocacy, community, and scholarship.
Dress to impress and come ready to support, celebrate, and contribute to a brighter future for all.
Location: The Nineteenth Century Club, 178 Forest Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60301
Event Details
6:00 PM Cocktail Hour
Enjoy an open bar, live music, and bid on raffle prizes while mingling with other attendees
7:00 PM Dinner
Options of Panko Herb Crusted Salmon, Hanger Steak, or Lemon Saffron Risotto with Roasted Vegetables (Vegan and GF)
8:00 PM Program Starts
Hosted by Emmy Award-winning, former WLS-TV/ABC 7 Chicago reporter and anchor Kevin Roy! Celebrate our 2026 scholarship recipients, honor this year’s Mel Wilson OPALGA+ Founders Award winner, and participate in the exciting live auction!
9:00 PM Dancing and Entertainment
Dance the night away to tunes provided by DJ Sho “Zeetus Lapetus” Daniels
11:00 PM Event Ends
The OPALGA+ Scholarship Fund provides financial support for the post-high school education of students who have demonstrated service and advocacy to the LGBTQ+ community and/or the larger community. This year, we awarded $60,000 in scholarships and have awarded over $280,000 since the inception of the scholarship fund ten years ago. Scholarship amounts awarded each year depend on your generosity!
Thank You to our 2026 Sponsors!
Presenting Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Diamond Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
And thank you to these local businesses for donating raffle and auction items!
