The grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago will feature a star-studded lineup of talent. Musical icons take the stage to celebrate this historic cultural milestone on the South Side.
According to WGN9, Stevie Wonder, The Roots, John Legend, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Common, Eddie Vedder, Jennifer Hudson, Marc Anthony, Tems, and U2’s Bono and The Edge. Also, Marsai Martin will be a part of the ceremony.
The highly anticipated grand opening marks a historic transformation for Chicago’s South Side. A vibrant, 19-acre civic campus in Jackson Park, the center breaks the mold of traditional, paper-heavy presidential libraries by debuting as the nation’s first fully digital repository. It also features a multi-floor museum packed with immersive multimedia exhibits, a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, pristine walking trails on the Wetland Walk, a state-of-the-art public playground, and a brand-new branch of the Chicago Public Library. The center will serve as a global hub for civic engagement and a joyful gathering space for the local community.
“This Grand Opening ceremony will be unlike any other. Filled with music, performances, and hope,” said Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation. “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.”
THE OBAMAS UNVEIL THEIR JOINT PORTRAIT
Earlier this week, Barack and Michelle Obama unveiled their first official joint painted portrait just ahead of the center’s opening. Titled “The Obamas: Springing Forth, 2026,” was created by acclaimed artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby. It will be displayed in the Hope and Change Lobby of the Obama Presidential Center.
The ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday and will be livestreamed.
For those in the city, the center is located at 6001 South Stony Island Avenue in Jackson Park.
The Obama Presidential Center opens to the public on Friday. Museum tickets are sold out for the opening weekend, but the rest of the campus is free and accessible to the public.