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Hope has a home, and it’s time to open the doors. Rooted on the South Side of Chicago, the Obama Presidential Center is a global hub for inspiring, empowering, and connecting people to make change. On this 19-acre campus, you can explore the world-class Museum, gather at a branch of the Chicago Public Library, or relax on the Great Lawn. Be part of the moment when this center for change comes to life for neighbors across the street and visitors around the world.

June 18, 2026

The Grand Opening Ceremony marks the official unveiling of the Center. While the ceremony itself is invite-only, the entire community can be a part of this historic day.

Experience the dynamic celebration with performances by global icons and engaging storytelling about the Foundation’s work to inspire, empower and connect people to make change in their own communities.

Official Watch Party: Experience this iconic moment on the Midway Plaisance near the Center. Enjoy local food vendors, grab exclusive merch, and watch the star-studded ceremony on the big screen. 

Please note: Ticket requests for the Grand Opening Ceremony Official Watch Party are now at capacity. If you already requested a ticket, confirmed guests will be notified by email soon.

More information about neighborhood impacts can be found here (Opens in a new tab) .

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Livestream from Anywhere

Join from the comfort of home or host your own viewing party. It’s a front-row seat to history, no matter where you are.

Stay in the Know

June 19-21, 2026

The Obama Presidential Center opens to the public! Come mark this milestone at a free, open-house style event, celebrating community, creativity, and joy. Dance to music on the plaza, create art with your family, and snapshot your place in this historic moment. 


Grand Opening Weekend Celebration

Let us know you’re in! Please register for this festive weekend. Campus activities have limited capacity and are first-come, first-served. 

Please note: Museum tickets are sold out for the Grand Opening Weekend.   Plan your Museum visit (Opens in a new tab) for a future date.

Be an insider

Sign up to receive the latest updates on Museum tickets, event announcements, and new programming. Stay informed and ensure you're at the front of the line when the Obama Presidential Center comes to life.
By providing a phone number, you confirm that you are an adult and consent to receive automated marketing and informational SMS messages from The Barack Obama Foundation at the phone number you provided. To learn more about how The Foundation would use your information, read the Foundation's Privacy Statement. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. You may opt out at any time by texting “STOP’ to (773) 915-0096. Consent is not a condition of purchase or service.

Grand Opening made possible by

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

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Become a Member

Become a Founding Member of the Obama Foundation and make your mark on history. Inspired by the leadership of Barack Obama, your support powers programs that inspire, empower, and connect changemakers.
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campus

The Campus

The Obama Presidential Center is an awe-inspiring 19-acre campus nestled within Chicago’s historic Jackson Park. Designed to inspire, empower, and connect people to bring change home, the campus features a diverse array of public spaces.
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faq

Official Watch Party FAQ

All the details you need for this festive gathering.
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