The event is being billed as a farewell speech that is expected to take place on Jan. 10. | Getty Obama planning farewell speech in Chicago next month

President Barack Obama is preparing a major speech in Chicago in early January as he prepares to leave office, according to two sources with knowledge of the event.

Obama's remarks are expected to include a thank you to Chicago and the state of Illinois for launching his political career, one that began as a state senator and then a U.S. senator and then president. It is also being billed as a farewell speech that is expected to take place on Jan. 10 — shortly before President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration.


The sources said Secret Service is surveying major venues for the event,including McCormick Place or the United Center, among others.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.