Next week marks the one-year countdown to the 2008 Democratic National Convention, and Democratic officials are hosting a public celebration here to mark the occasion.

Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean will greet the public at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Pepsi Center.

He'll be joined by Gov. Bill Ritter and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper.

"This gives us an opportunity to rally around our principles," said Pat Waak, chairwoman of the Colorado Democratic party. "That's the real purpose of it. We're trying to build up enthusiasm for the convention."

Waak said several dozen officials from state parties around the country will be on hand.

They'll be in Denver next week to look at hotels to house their delegations.

The event, with entertainment and refreshments, will be at the west entrance to the Pepsi Center, site of the convention.

Democratic officials are planning a series of community events this fall to promote the convention.

Democrats aim to recruit 10,000 volunteers to work during the Aug. 25-28, 2008, gathering.