After a decade of planning, the Obama Presidential Center is finally opening in Barack Obama's hometown of Chicago.
Taking place at the Center's John Lewis Plaza, the grand opening ceremony on June 18 will bring together "global leaders, artists, changemakers, and citizens for an inspiring celebration of the values that shaped the Obama presidency and continue to power civic engagement across generations."
The center features a museum, which shares the story of Barack and Michelle Obama, "their historic presidency, and stories of people and events that influenced their continued legacy." It also boasts public spaces, a new library, a basketball court, and dining options.
"This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other — filled with music, performances, and hope," Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, said in a press release.
© Getty Images"The Grand Opening Ceremony will reflect a spirit of inspiration and joy, with a big boost from the performers who are sharing their talent with us. We hope to inspire people everywhere to believe in their power to bring change home."
© Angie McMonigalThe Obama Presidential Center in Chicago
What is the Obama Presidential Center?
Located on Chicago's South Side, the Obama Presidential Center is a "global hub designed to inspire, empower, and connect people to create change," according to the press release.
"Visitors of all ages will be invited to explore the open campus, engage with immersive exhibits and public programs, and discover how they can make a difference in their own communities."
© GettyBruce Springsteen will perform at the Obama Presidential Center's grand opening
Grand Opening ceremony performers
The opening ceremony features a star-studded musical lineup, including multiple Grammy winners and even an EGOT.
The lineup includes Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Common, John Legend, U2’s Bono and The Edge, Marc Anthony, The Roots, Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, Nigerian singer Tems, and actress and producer Marsai Martin.
© Getty ImagesStatues of Barack and Michelle outside the Obama Presidential Center
Livestream
The Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening Ceremony will be livestreamed on June 18, beginning at 11 a.m. CT / 12 p.m. ET. You can watch it globally on obama.org, and on The Obama Foundation’s TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook accounts.
The livestream will also be featured prominently on The Obama Foundation homepage.
© Getty ImagesInside the Museum Tower at the Obama Presidential Center
Public opening
The Obama Presidential Center opens to the public on June 19. While Museum tickets are sold out for the opening weekend, the rest of the campus is free and accessible for the general public.
© Getty ImagesThe Museum Tower at the Obama Presidential Center
Obama Presidential Center Museum tickets
Tickets to the Obama Presidential Center Museum are now available from June 19 through November 30, 2026; however, the next available tickets on the museum's website are not until November 2.
General museum admission tickets include access to all four levels of the museum, the Oval Office, and the Sky Room. Tickets to the museum are timed-ticket entry only. Adult tickets (ages 12 and above) cost $30, while a child ticket (ages three to 11) is priced at $23.
For more information, visit Obama.org.
