Turning Point USA has announced a large-scale public memorial for its late founder, Charlie Kirk, set to take place on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The event, titled “Building a Legacy: Remembering Charlie Kirk,” will open its doors at 8:00 a.m., with the formal program beginning at 11:00 a.m. local time. Organizers expect a substantial turnout at the 63,000-seat venue, which has hosted events ranging from NFL Super Bowls to international concerts.
Charlie Kirk, who died earlier this month at the age of 31, was best known as the founder and face of Turning Point USA, a conservative grassroots organization that rapidly expanded into a national movement under his leadership. Founded in 2012 when Kirk was just 18 years old, TPUSA began as a small venture focused on youth outreach and conservative advocacy. Over the years, it grew into a network reaching millions of students and supporters, known for its bold messaging and energetic activism.
According to Turning Point USA’s announcement, the memorial will be open to the public, with no tickets required. The organization stated it intends the event to serve as a “celebration of a life lived in purpose and service,” highlighting Kirk’s dedication to faith, country, and free speech. Though details of the full program have not yet been released, the event is expected to feature speeches from public officials, friends, family members, and leaders from across the conservative movement.
Among those expected to attend is former President Donald Trump, who shared a close political and personal relationship with Kirk. Trump previously posted a tribute calling Kirk “a warrior for our values” and “a patriot who loved America more than anything.” Vice President JD Vance is also expected to attend, according to early reports.
In a statement shared by TPUSA, the organization wrote, “Charlie died doing what he loved: fighting for truth, for faith, for family, and for America.” The tribute went on to describe Kirk as a man of “deep convictions and unwavering purpose,” adding that his work touched the lives of countless young Americans. “Charlie wasn’t just a leader. He was a mentor, a builder, a fighter—and above all, a believer in the promise of this country,” the message read.
While the cause of Kirk’s death has not been made public, sources close to the family have asked for privacy as loved ones continue to process the loss. Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with figures such as Senator Josh Hawley, Representative Elise Stefanik, and Governor Ron DeSantis expressing their condolences and admiration.
Kirk’s widow, Erika Frantz Kirk, broke her silence earlier this week with an emotional statement. Speaking through a short video posted online, Erika thanked first responders, investigators, and government officials for their support in recent days. She also expressed gratitude to the thousands of Americans who had reached out with condolences and prayers.
“Charlie was my best friend, my partner, and the father of our beautiful daughter, Gigi,” she said. “His heart was full of love for God, for this country, and for our family. I always knew how deeply he loved us.” Erika also pledged to continue her husband’s mission through the work of Turning Point USA. “I promise I will never let his legacy die,” she said, her voice steady with resolve.
Though still reeling from the loss, Erika shared a tender moment she had with their three-year-old daughter. “Gigi asked me, ‘Where’s Daddy?’” she recalled. “I told her he’s with Jesus now. And she said, ‘Okay. Then he’s safe.’”
The official tribute site for Charlie Kirk includes messages from friends, colleagues, and students who credit him with inspiring them to engage with their faith, education, and the political process. While religious themes are prominent throughout, the tone remains one of action rather than mourning. One of the final lines on the memorial page reads simply, “We will carry the torch now.”
The memorial at State Farm Stadium is expected to draw not only longtime TPUSA supporters, but also political allies, students, and members of the general public who admired Kirk’s passionate advocacy. For those unable to attend in person, Turning Point USA has announced plans to stream the event live online via its media platforms.
As preparations continue, the organization asks that attendees arrive early due to security screenings and the expected size of the crowd. Volunteers and staff will be on hand throughout the venue to assist with logistics, accessibility, and seating.
