Key facts
- The Obama Presidential Center's grand opening ceremony will feature performances by Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, John Legend, and U2's Bono and The Edge.
- Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama are scheduled to deliver speeches at the dedication event.
- The ceremony will be livestreamed on Thursday, with the center opening to the public on June 19.
- The $850 million project is described as the longest-delayed and most expensive presidential library.
- The center is located on the south side of Chicago.
The Obama Foundation announced that the grand opening ceremony for the Obama Presidential Center will feature a notable lineup of award-winning performers, including Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, John Legend, The Roots, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Marc Anthony, Tems, and U2's Bono and The Edge. Actress Marsai Martin is also set to participate, and the Illinois National Guard's Color Guard will be present. Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama are scheduled to deliver speeches at the dedication event. The ceremony will be livestreamed on The Obama Foundation’s social media accounts starting at 11 a.m. local time, and the presidential center will open to the public on June 19. Obama expressed gratitude to the south side of Chicago residents, emphasizing the center belongs to the community, and noted that his favorite exhibit features letters from citizens that still bring him to tears. The $850 million construction project, which includes a museum, Obama Foundation offices, and a Chicago Public Library branch, has been described as the longest-delayed and most expensive presidential library in history.