MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The city of Milwaukee turns 176 years old this year. 

The actual birthday is Jan. 31, next Monday, but you're invited to an early birthday party.

At 5:30 p.m. Thursday, doors will open at The Grain Exchange building for the Milwaukee Press Club's annual birthday celebration.

Everyone is welcome. It's $40 at the door, and once you get in, there's food, beer and birthday cake. 

You can rub elbows with the mayor, the county executive and the governor, and of course sing "happy birthday."

The theme for this year's party is "City of Champions," and that's not only a reference to the Bucks.

"Also focusing on our unsung heroes. The champions who have got us through the pandemic, who have been on the front lines. So that was something we really focused on this year in thinking about the theme and something that we will celebrate this evening," said Katharine Foley, Milwaukee Press Club Board.

Vaccination cards or proof of a negative Covid test will be checked at the door and masks will be required inside. 

The party runs from 5:30-8 p.m.