The Tennessee Republican Party presents the
49th Annual Statesmen's Dinner!
We're excited to celebrate America's 250th Birthday with you!
About the Statesmen's Dinner
The Statesmen's Dinner is a time-honored Tennessee Republican tradition dating back over 50 years. We've hosted Vice Presidents, future Presidents, Secretaries of State, cabinet members, governors, senators and more. It is the largest state Republican Party dinner in the country and attracts over a thousand attendees annually.
This year's theme, "Our Sacred Honor," pays homage to America's semiquincentennial. The Declaration of Independence marked the beginning of 250 years of freedom and patriotism in our country. We remember the sacrifices of those patriots that secured our independence and their bravery: "with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor."
In 1994, the Tennessee Republican Party introduced the Statesman of the Year Award. An individual or couple from each congressional district is chosen to be honored as the district's Statesman of the Year based upon their service to the Republican Party. To date, over 300 Tennessee Republicans have been named Statesman of the Year. Nine more will be named this year.
In 2024, to mark thirty years since Tennessee's becoming majority Republican, we introduced the Legislator of the Year Award. The award recipient, alternating between a state representative and a state senator each year, demonstrates exemplary public service and strong adherence to Republican values.
Statesmen's Dinner 2026 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date, time & location of the dinner?
Saturday, June 27th, 2026
Receptions begin at 5:00pm; the dinner and program begin at 6:00pm
Music City Center (note: different from last year)
Karl Dean Ballroom
What is the difference between the Capitol and VIP receptions?
The Capitol Reception is open to all. The VIP Reception is a closed reception for event sponsors. The name tag that you pick up at registration will indicate if you are eligible to attend the VIP reception.
Do you have any lodging options?
More info to come!
What is the attire?
Business Professional. Men typically dress in dark suits and women in business dresses or modest cocktail dresses. This event is NOT black tie, so tuxedos and floor-length gowns are not expected.
Will I receive a physical/electronic ticket?
No! We collect your names at the time of purchase (or later from your table host if you are sitting with a group), so you will not receive/do not need a physical or electronic ticket. When you arrive, you will find a name tag with your name and table number on it. That's how we know you're a paid and seated attendee!
How long should I expect to be there?
The program usually ends around 9:00pm.
What do I do about parking?
The Music City Center has a large parking deck with discounted parking options available.
VIPs with free parking will be provided a one-use QR code to scan to redeem their free parking benefit.