Wake Dems Valentine’s Gala
Join us for our cherished Valentine’s tradition, now in its 46th year ❤️
We can’t wait to see you at our 2026 Valentine’s Gala honoring this year’s Sweethearts, Rising Stars, and Mentors — plus the inaugural presentation of a new award!
The program will run from 6:30p – 8:30p with plenty of time for socializing before and after. We’ll have a staffed photo booth, couple’s games to play for prizes, and a few special surprises throughout the evening.
Attire for the evening is business/cocktail. Tickets include dinner, a drink ticket, and entry for door prizes.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@wakedems.org. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Note: Discount codes are available if ticket price is prohibitive:
- Active WCDP volunteers may use code ATCOST for 30% off
- Young Dems (<35) may use code YOUNGDEMS for 30% off
Guests
North Carolina Democratic Party Chair Anderson Clayton
Anderson Clayton is the youngest state party chair in the country and a nationally recognized leader in grassroots organizing and party building. A proud rural North Carolinian, Anderson has dedicated her career to expanding Democratic infrastructure in all 100 counties.
Under her leadership, the North Carolina Democratic Party has invested deeply in year-round organizing, youth engagement, and rebuilding trust with voters across the state. Anderson is known for her unapologetic belief that Democrats win by showing up everywhere, fighting for working people, and building a party that reflects the full diversity of North Carolina.
She brings urgency, clarity, and heart to the work—and we are thrilled to welcome her as our featured speaker for this year’s Valentine’s celebration.
Guests of Honor: Fatima Issela Velazquez-Antonio & Family
A few months ago, when ICE/CBP agents abducted 23 year old Fatima Issela Velazquez-Antonio from her job site, we asked for your help bringing her back home to Wendell.
You responded. Our community rallied together, and our efforts made a difference.
After spending a month in a Georgia detention facility, Fatima was finally reunited with her community in Wendell. Now, we’re honored that Fatima and her family will be joining us as Guests of Honor for our 46th Annual Valentine’s Gala.
We don’t just want to celebrate with her family — we want to send a message that our Party welcomes people like Fatima into our communities. Please join us to celebrate Valentine’s Day and the values of love, dignity, and belonging that bring us together as a community.