Watch the Grand Opening

On June 18, 2026, the Obama Presidential Center was officially unveiled with a dynamic ceremony livestreamed globally. Relive this milestone moment and celebrate our new hub for hope and change.

“We wanted the center to be a vibrant, living celebration of community, where we can learn together and share the joys of art and music and sport and play, because it’s in those moments that we’re reminded of our common humanity and strengthen the bonds of trust that not only make our lives richer, but make our democracy stronger.”
- President Obama, Grand Opening Ceremony, June 18, 2026 

Featuring

  • House band The Roots

  • A presentation of colors by the Illinois Army National Color Guard

  • An invocation led by Pastor Joel Hunter and Joshua DuBois

  • Remarks from President Obama, Mrs. Obama, Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett, and Obama Foundation Board Chair Marty Nesbitt

  • Musical Performances by Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, Guitars Over Guns, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Marc Anthony, Stevie Wonder, Tems, U2’s Bono and The Edge, and Uniting Voices Chicago.

  • A special appearance by actress and producer Marsai Martin

Grand Opening made possible by

GCM Grosvenor, Bank of America, Abbott, BMO, ITW, Northern Trust

The Obama Foundation is a non-partisan 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charitable organization with a mission to inspire, empower, and connect people to change their world. We are subject to federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding political activities, such as campaign activities and lobbying. We support the expression and discussion of ideas and opinions and encourage people to be informed citizens and engage in their communities. While individuals participating in Obama Foundation events have the right to express their political opinions and engage in political activities, they do so only in their individual capacities and are not speaking or acting for the Foundation. The Obama Foundation expressly disavows any partisan opinions or activities that are made by such individuals and such opinions and activities are not authorized and may not be attributed to the Foundation.

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Plan Your Visit

The Obama Presidential Center is an awe-inspiring 19-acre campus designed to inspire, empower, and connect people to bring change home
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Gear up for change

Commemorate the opening of the Obama Presidential Center with our Classic Collection. Designed for versatility and built for impact, these foundational pieces are made to accompany you as you show up, speak out, and bring about change in your own neighborhood.
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