Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama welcomed three ex-US presidents, dignitaries and a galaxy of stars to the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago on Thursday.
The 20-acre South Side campus in Jackson Park, near the couple’s pre-White House home, is a monument to the eight years they spent in office.
Construction began after Obama left the Oval Office a decade ago.
—Four presidents, one stage—
George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Joe Biden attended the dedication ceremony in John Lewis Plaza on June 18, 2026. Current President Donald Trump, who has long feuded with Obama, was not invited.
The BBC contacted the White House for comment.
The Obamas were joined onstage by the Bushes, Clintons, and Bidens for a group photo.
Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau, both in office during Obama’s tenure, also attended.
–“A vibrant, living celebration of community”–
Obama, president from 2009-2017, told visitors: “We wanted it 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.”
He appeared emotional as Michelle gave a heartfelt tribute to him. Neither Obama mentioned Trump by name, but both made pointed remarks widely read as rebukes of the current administration.
Obama’s line, “There will be no kings,” drew loud applause and was hailed as a direct message about democracy.
–Stars, exhibits, and community space–
The opening featured performances from Jennifer Hudson, Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Common, Marc Anthony, U2’s Bono and The Edge, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, and Chicago’s own Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, who debuted an original song.
Inside, visitors can tour a replica of the Oval Office as it looked during Obama’s presidency, view campaign memorabilia, and see a selection of dresses Michelle wore as first lady. The Chicago Public Library also has a branch on campus.
Community amenities include park space, a playground, basketball court, and recording studio.
—$850m project, years of controversy—
The privately funded project carries a reported $850m price tag and faced cost overruns and delays. The 225ft monolithic museum drew mixed reviews for its architecture.
The use of public park land sparked local opposition and legal battles. Residents also feared the centre would accelerate gentrification on the South Side.
Supporters say the centre will boost tourism to Chicago and stands as a fitting tribute to the nation’s first Black president.
