Forum

Join us in the Forum, a community and civic space designed for people to learn, grow, and connect. The two-level building hosts a number of free programs and events across several locations. Share a meal at our Restaurant. Take in a lecture or concert at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium. Grab your swag at the Shop. Walk around and view inspiring art or just take a break in the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium.
Explore Our Programs
A rendering of the Elie Wiesel Auditorium located in the Forum Building of the Obama Presidential Center. The stage is a large circle surrounded by red chairs. Behind the stage is a large screen. The walls of the auditorium have wood paneling.

Explore The Forum

  • Hadiya Pendleton Atrium

    Connect with friends and neighbors in the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium. The Atrium features bright, open spaces and commissioned artwork from Chicago native Theaster Gates.

  • Elie Wiesel Auditorium

    Watch talks, poetry, dance, music, and more at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium. Grab your tickets to see inspiring speakers and performers from across the world.

  • Restaurant

    Don't miss the chance to savor some culinary delights  conceptualized by Chicago’s own Chef Cliff Rome in partnership with Bon Appétit Management Company. 

  • Democracy in Action Lab

    Take a look inside one of our seven program rooms designed as workshops to build democratic knowledge, behavior, and skills. Sign-up for one of our future programs that offer training on social responsibility and leadership.

  • Media Suite

    Explore our state-of-the-art recording studio tailor-made for all of your creative needs. The Media Suite is available to Presidential Center program participants. Sign-up details to come. 

  • Cafe

    The grab and go Cafe offers coffee, seasonal pastries, and prepared items year round. Take a break in-between activities to grab a snack or a quick cup of coffee.  

Programs at the Center

Take a look at the performances, activities, and classes happening at the Elie Wiesel Auditorium and the Atrium.

Learn more
Brandon Breaux, a Black man with a deep skin tone, stands over five seated students. On the table is an iPad and illustrations. He is wearing a mint beanie. Space art is on the wall in the background.

More On The Forum

  • Art on Campus

    Take a look at more than 20 art installations, located across our 19 acre campus.

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  • Dining

    Nourish your soul (and stomach) with our dining options brought to you through a new collaboration between Bon Appétit Management and Chicago’s own Chef Cliff Rome. 

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  • The Shop

    Caps from the 2008 Election? “Yes We Can” T-shirts? Our shop has got you covered. Grab your Obama merchandise online or in-person at our exclusive shop. 

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  • Host an Event

    Learn more about holding your next party at the Forum. 

    Discover Our Rental Options