Obama Presidential Center Launching Free Summer Program Series With July Fourth Celebration

WOODLAWN — The Obama Presidential Center will have a slew of free family-friendly events throughout the summer as part of its “You Are America” series, it announced Monday.

The series is meant to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary. It kicks off with a July Fourth celebration this weekend called The People’s Fourth. There will be live music by Melody Angel, Mucca Pazza and DJ Hot Rod, self-guided tours and myriad activities across the campus.

The People’s Fourth takes place 2-7 p.m. Saturday on the center’s John Lewis Plaza. Learn more here.

“The Obama Presidential Center is a permanent home for hope and we will celebrate this historic milestone by shining the light on those who will continue to perfect our nation,” Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, said in a press release. “Whether you come from down the block, across the city, or around the world, our new series will inspire visitors to shape a better future for all.”

Other events in the program include a July 7 art talk with center-commissioned artist Mark Bradford and the center’s Founding Director Dr. Louise Bernard; live sets from DJ Lady D and Jesse De La Pena to celebrate Chicago House Music on July 10; and a symposium connecting civic involvement with history and the arts on July 17.

The center will also host garden gatherings with the Urban Growers Collective every other week from July 12-Sept. 20. These open-house-style events will feature local DJs spinning tunes, hands-on gardening activities and seasonal bites from the center’s restaurant and catering partner BAMJoy.

On July 21, the center kicks off its “Movies on the Plaza” series with a screening of “Hamilton.”

In August, a karaoke celebration will honor former President Barack Obama’s birthday and a celebration of Chicago’s diverse food culture will host a panel of chefs and prepared dishes.

Browse all of the center’s programs here.