THE 2026 FOREVER THE FREE STATE GALA
The 11th annual Forever the Free State Gala will be Saturday, Aug. 15, at the Overland Park Convention Center, featuring gubernatorial candidate Cindy Holscher, U.S. Senate candidate Adam Hamilton, U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, Governor Laura Kelly, and featured speaker Senator Mark Kelly.
Doors will open to guests at 5:30 pm. All guests will be required to go through security after entering the building. Arrive a few minutes early to give yourself extra time for the security process. We thank you in advance for your patience. Cocktail hour begins at 6:00 pm. Registration closes at 6:45 pm and the program begins at 7:00 pm with dinner served during the program.
The Overland Park Convention Center is on College Boulevard between Metcalf and Nall. The circle drive will not be available for this event. You must enter through the north doors. If you park to the south of the building, you will need to walk around to the north doors due to the security process.
Use this address, 6068 W 110th St Overland Park, KS 66211, to navigate to the north parking lot.
To expedite entry and enhance security, only the following bags will be permitted:
-Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12" x 6" x 12"
- Small clutch purses, wallets, or wristlets not exceeding 6" x 9"
- Medically necessary bags, diaper bags, and equipment cases, subject to inspection
After the gala programming concludes, there will be wine, snacks, a cash bar, and music in the atrium area for any guests who would like to continue the festivities.
The annual gala is our primary fundraiser and one of the year's "can't miss" events! Your generous donations keep our local office open year-round, allow us to hire and maintain a professional full-time staff, and fund our voter outreach efforts. Thank you!
We are pleased to announce that Senator Mark Kelly will join us as our featured speaker!
Senator Mark Kelly is a retired U.S. Navy combat pilot, engineer, and NASA astronaut. He lives in Tucson with his wife, former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords. Mark took office in December 2020 after Arizonans elected him to fill out the remainder of the late Senator John McCain’s term. In 2022, Arizonans elected him to a full six-year term in the Senate. Mark is the son of two police officers, and he attended public schools from elementary school through the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. As a naval aviator he made two deployments on the aircraft carrier the U.S.S. Midway and flew 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm. Mark was selected as an astronaut in 1996 in the same class as his twin brother, Scott, and has spent more than 50 days in space. We can’t wait to welcome him to Johnson County.
Frequently asked questions
What do my Gala donation funds support?
Your donation stays in Johnson County.
Your donation helps support the election of Democrats in competitive local races.
Your donation supports our year-round, permanent office in Overland Park, a hub for community outreach.
Your donation funds our professional staff
Your donation funds outreach via knocking, texting and mail to the 148,000+ registered Democrats in Johnson County
*All funds raised will benefit the Johnson County Democratic Party, fueling our voter outreach efforts. Senator Mark Kelly is appearing at this event only as a special guest. Senator Kelly is not asking for funds or donations.
What is the attire for the event?
- The gala is a great reason to get that one outfit out of the back of the closet and get fancy for an evening. Full length gown, tux, cocktail dress or just tie, whatever you do, feel confident and have fun.
Is it a cash bar?
- No! Beer, wine and cocktails are included with your ticket both before and during the show!
- Wine will be served with dinner.
Where is parking?
Parking is available in the lot on the north side of the convention center and in the parking garage to the east.
Use this address, 6068 W 110th St Overland Park, KS 66211, to navigate to the north parking lot.
Valet parking, if needed, is available in the front (south side) via The Sheraton Hotel.
Are there vegetarian options?
- You can order a vegetarian plate when you purchase your ticket.
If I am hosting a table, how do I identify my guest list?
- There is a link on the registration page where you can list your guest names.
Is the venue ADA Accessible?
- Yes, for more information contact Overland Park Convention Center at (913) 439-5382.