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 30, 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
TICKET SALES COMING SOON!
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!
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
