CHICAGO, IL – The heart of Chicago is poised to host a major cultural event this week as the 12th annual Windy City Smokeout festival prepares to commence. This four-day outdoor extravaganza, renowned for its unique blend of country music and world-class barbecue, will unfold just outside the iconic United Center, promising a vibrant sensory experience for attendees.
Scheduled to run from Thursday, July 10th, through Sunday, July 13th, the festival marks a significant moment on the city’s summer calendar, drawing enthusiasts from across the nation and beyond. The event has grown steadily over the past decade, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for fans of both genres.
A Star-Studded Musical Roster
The 2025 edition boasts a formidable lineup of country music artists set to grace the stage each evening. The programming is carefully curated, featuring a mix of established stars and rising talents, ensuring broad appeal.
Opening night, Thursday, July 10th, will feature headlining performances by Bailey Zimmerman and Koe Wetzel, setting an energetic tone for the weekend.
Friday, July 11th, sees Grammy-winning group Old Dominion co-headlining with critically acclaimed artist Dylan Gossett, offering a blend of polished hits and evocative songwriting.
Saturday, July 12th, presents a dynamic duo with country superstar Kane Brown and breakout artist Megan Moroney leading the charge, promising a night of chart-topping anthems.
The festival concludes on Sunday, July 13th, with performances by two fan favorites: Jon Pardi and Riley Green, bringing the four-day musical journey to a powerful close. This diverse array of headliners underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing the breadth of contemporary country music.
Celebrating the Art of Barbecue
Beyond the musical performances, the Windy City Smokeout is equally celebrated for its exceptional culinary offerings, specifically its extensive selection of authentic barbecue from pitmasters representing various regional styles. The festival provides a rare opportunity for attendees to sample creations from some of the most respected names in the BBQ world.
Chicago’s own vibrant barbecue scene will be well-represented, with local favorites including Lexington Betty Smokehouse, Soul & Smoke, Green Street Smoked Meats, and Bub City serving up their signature dishes. These establishments reflect the city’s growing prowess in the competitive world of smoked meats.
Adding to the national scope of the event, renowned out-of-state vendors will also be on hand. Pitmasters like Hertiage Barvecue from California, Meat Mitch Barbecue from Kansas, and Little Miss BBQ from Arizona are expected to draw significant attention, offering attendees a taste of diverse barbecue traditions from across the United States.
Ticketing and Access Information
Prospective attendees have several options for experiencing the Windy City Smokeout. Wristbands are the required form of entry, offering varying levels of access and duration.
Single-day general admission wristbands are priced at $99, providing access to the festival grounds and performances for one chosen day. For those planning to attend all four days, 4-day passes are available for $495, representing a significant value compared to purchasing individual day passes.
For an elevated experience, VIP access tickets are also offered, though specific pricing details for these were not provided in the initial announcement. VIP passes typically include premium viewing areas, dedicated amenities, and other exclusive benefits.
The festival maintains a family-friendly policy regarding younger attendees; children under the age of 10 are permitted free entry when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult, making it accessible for families wishing to enjoy the music and food together.
The Festival Experience Near United Center
The location outside the United Center offers ample space for the expansive festival setup, including multiple stages, numerous food vendor tents, and areas for relaxation and activities. This large outdoor venue is transformed into a bustling hub of activity, filled with the sounds of country music and the irresistible aroma of slow-cooked barbecue.
Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere, characterized by communal dining areas, merchandise booths, and various activations adding to the overall experience. The proximity to a major transportation hub like the United Center area provides convenience for those traveling to the event from different parts of the city or suburbs.
As Chicago prepares to host the 12th iteration of this popular event, anticipation is high for what promises to be another successful run of the Windy City Smokeout, celebrating the best of country music and barbecue culture over four days in July.
