The Windy City Smokeout has become a summer highlight for barbecue enthusiasts and country music fans alike, bringing together two passions that ignite at the United Center each July.
Held from July 10-13, this year marks the festival’s 13th anniversary, and co-founder Ed Warm promises enough new experiences to keep even the most seasoned attendees captivated.
Originally launched in 2013 in a modest parking lot, the festival quickly gained traction and moved to the Chicago River in River North, where its popularity skyrocketed.
In 2019, the event found a new home at the United Center, cementing its reputation as a must-visit summer event. Warm reflects on its growth: “We’re really proud of what we’ve learned and how we’ve grown. We try to make every day a can’t-miss day.”
This year’s event will feature over 20 acclaimed pitmasters from across the nation, providing a feast for barbecue lovers. Attendees can expect favorites from Chicago, including Smoque BBQ, Green Street Smoked Meats, and Soul & Smoke, offering delicious dishes like pulled-pork nachos and crispy brisket tacos.
Additionally, festival-goers will get to taste offerings from renowned establishments such as Sugarfire Smokehouse from St. Louis, known for their brisket barbacoa tostada, and Ubon’s BBQ from Mississippi, famous for their slow-smoked pulled pork sandwiches.
The music lineup promises a thrilling mix of established and rising stars. Opening the festival on Thursday, Bailey Zimmerman is set to take the stage, followed by fan favorites Old Dominion on Friday night.
The excitement ramps up over the weekend, with two headliners each night. Saturday features the likes of Megan Moroney and Kane Brown, while Sunday brings Riley Green and Jon Pardi to enthrall audiences.
Ed Warm has a keen eye for emerging talent, noting that Sam Barber, who has garnered significant attention with his song “Straight and Narrow,” is set to perform on Sunday as well.
In addition to the musical offerings, this year’s Smokeout introduces new culinary talents, such as Dayne’s Craft BBQ, and vendors like bootmaker Tecovas, providing attendees with a variety of options.
A new 21-plus area has also been created, aimed at those who desire a more relaxed experience at the festival.
For those planning their visit, Sunday is touted as the best day to enjoy the festival, featuring a strong music lineup, a more relaxed atmosphere, and a bottomless BBQ brunch that has already sold out.
However, tickets may still be available through resale options on platforms like Ticketmaster for those eager to indulge.
On Thursday and Friday, attendees can enjoy shorter barbecue lines and lighter concert crowds, making it an excellent time to sample the festival’s culinary delights.
Patrons are advised to make a beeline for the ribs at Pappy’s Smokehouse, the Italian sausage at Hoodoo Brown BBQ, and the green chili and cheese burrito from Little Miss BBQ, as popular items tend to sell out quickly.
Additionally, guests can look forward to seeing social media influencer DJ Sommer Ray, who has drawn attention for her rumored relationship with TikTok star Mark Estes. The buzz around their potential appearance adds an extra layer of excitement to the weekend’s events.
As festival-goers prepare for a jam-packed weekend filled with delicious food, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Windy City Smokeout promises to provide an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of barbecue and country music.
image source from：chicago
