Obamas Open Chicago Center on Juneteenth Eve
A rare full-family appearance and an all-star concert christened the 19-acre campus before the holiday.
Fame & Fortune Desk · June 19, 2026 · Based on reporting by People
The full Obama family took the stage in Chicago on June 18 to open the Obama Presidential Center. And it was Malia and Sasha who drew the loudest cheers, during a rare joint public appearance alongside Barack and Michelle. The grand opening of the 19-acre campus landed on the eve of Juneteenth, framing the night as a Black-culture celebration.
The star-studded ceremony doubled as a concert, with Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend and Bruce Springsteen performing, plus the Roots, Eddie Vedder and U2. Oprah, Tom Hanks, Christina Aguilera and Marc Anthony filled the crowd. The campus caps years of planning. Public tours come next.
