PHOTOS: Best moments from Obama’s presidential center opening

Published June 19, 2026 7:48am ET | Updated June 19, 2026 8:09am ET

A dedication ceremony for former President Barack Obama’s Presidential Center in Chicago on Thursday featured the Obama family, as well as several other former presidents, first ladies, Cabinet members, and politicians.

The center, which opens publicly June 19 in time for Juneteenth and America 250 celebrations, has a 235-foot tower with a museum, a branch of the Chicago Public Library, and sports courts. The site is intended to function as a community center in Chicago’s South Side.

Here are some of the best moments from the opening, in photos:

  • Malia and Sasha obama at the presidential library opening
    Sasha Obama, left, and Malia Obama sit on stage during the dedication ceremony for the Obama Presidential Center, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
  • Mark Kelly and Gabby Giffords at Obama Presidential Center
    Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., left, and his wife, former Rep. Gabby Giffords, D-Ariz., arrive ahead of the Obama Presidential Center dedication ceremony Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
  • Christina Aguilera performs at obama presidential center opening
    Singer Christina Aguilera performs during the dedication ceremony for the Obama Presidential Center, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
  • Jennifer Hudson singing
    Jennifer Hudson performs during the dedication ceremony for the Obama Presidential Center, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
  • Former Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau arrives during the dedication ceremony for the Obama Presidential Center, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jon Cherry)

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