From the promise of election night two years ago, to the earnestness of sign making in the waning days of a mid-term campaign that's been challenging for the president's party, the search for enthusiasm has come home.
"Everywhere the president is it's an important event, and in his hometown of Chicago we expect it to be no different," said Joanne Peters, DNC.
Democrats are hoping to rekindle passion for their candidates including senate hopeful Alexi Giannoulias.
Attendees will be allowed free into Midway Plaisance at 4:30 pm. for the "Moving America Forward Rally." It will also feature hip-hop artist Common, a multi-Grammy winner and Chicago native.
Streets surrounding the Midway park will be closed at 6 a.m. Saturday from 58th to 61st and from Cottage Grove to Stony Island. They'll reopen at midnight. It's a plan even Illinois Republicans say they like.
"We are glad to have him because every time he comes back in town our candidates do better," said Pat Brady, chairman of Illinois GOP. "Mark Kirk has gained 3 or 4 points in the polls in the last couple of weeks right on the heels of these luminaries like the president and Bill Clinton, so I don't think it is necessarily working for them."
As for the hassles of a presidential visit, some Hyde Park residents say after two years they expect this.
"Actually a having a president of the United States coming back, someone that you know, you are familiar with, it is an honor," said Joe Washington , Hyde Park resident.
Those attending the rally should expect airport-level security.
Organizing for America, the president's community organizing group, says all costs will be covered.
