Chicago’s much-anticipated Windy City Smokeout is back for its 12th edition from July 10 to 13, 2025, at the iconic United Center grounds. This four-day outdoor festival perfectly blends the best of country music with mouthwatering barbecue, attracting tens of thousands of fans eager to enjoy top-tier live performances and world-class pitmaster dishes. The event is a highlight of Chicago’s summer calendar, promising unforgettable experiences for country music lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Star Power and Fresh Talent at Windy City Smokeout 2025
The 2025 lineup showcases a powerful mix of country music’s biggest names and rising stars. Each day features headline acts that have made waves in the genre, supported by exciting newcomers expanding country music’s reach.
- Thursday, July 10: The festival kicks off with Bailey Zimmerman and Koe Wetzel headlining, alongside Shane Smith & The Saints, Bayker Blankenship, Angel White, and a special DJ set by Sommer Ray.
- Friday, July 11: Old Dominion, the 2024 ACM Group of the Year, leads the evening, joined by Dylan Gossett, Jamie Belushi, Josh Meloy, Lauren Watkins, and Maggie Antone.
- Saturday, July 12: Kane Brown, nominated for ACM Entertainer of the Year in 2023, headlines alongside Megan Moroney, Charles Wesley Godwin, Austin Snell, and Kashus Culpepper.
- Sunday, July 13: Jon Pardi, Riley Green, Ella Langley, Sam Barber, and Josh Ross close out the festival with dynamic performances.
This lineup reflects the festival’s commitment to showcasing both established stars and emerging talent, ensuring a diverse and engaging musical journey for attendees.
A Feast for the Senses: BBQ and Beyond
Beyond the music, the Windy City Smokeout is renowned for its culinary offerings. Over 20 celebrated barbecue pitmasters from Chicago and across the nation will serve up a variety of smoked meats and classic BBQ dishes. Festival-goers can indulge in a curated selection of flavors, making the event a true celebration of country culture’s food and music heritage.
Special events enhance the experience, including the “Biggest Happy Hour of the Summer” on Friday, July 11, and a bottomless BBQ Brunch on Sunday, July 13. The brunch features a pitmaster buffet with a unique Bacon Bar, alongside mimosa and Bloody Mary bars, offering fans a perfect way to savor the festival’s flavors while enjoying live music.
Festival Experience and Access
The Windy City Smokeout runs from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Attendees can choose from various ticket options, including 4-day passes and single-day General Admission, VIP, and Platinum wristbands. These provide access to the full lineup of performances and culinary delights.
The festival’s location outside the United Center offers convenient access, with designated Uber zones facilitating smooth arrivals and departures. The event’s organizers prioritize a boutique, first-class festival atmosphere, blending hospitality with the authentic spirit of country music and BBQ.
Windy City Smokeout and Chicago’s Vibrant Festival Scene
This year’s Windy City Smokeout coincides with other notable Chicago events, such as the Square Roots Festival and the World Fair US, highlighting the city’s diverse cultural offerings. The Smokeout stands out as a premier country music gathering, drawing fans from across the region and beyond.
The festival’s growing popularity mirrors the broader surge in country music’s appeal, especially among younger audiences. With artists like Beyoncé incorporating country influences and platforms like Spotify reporting increased country listenership, Windy City Smokeout remains at the forefront of this cultural momentum.
Key Highlights of Windy City Smokeout 2025
- Four-day festival from July 10-13, 2025, at Chicago’s United Center grounds
- Headliners include Kane Brown, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi, Bailey Zimmerman, and Megan Moroney
- Over 20 top BBQ pitmasters offering diverse smoked meat dishes
- Special events: Biggest Happy Hour (July 11), Bottomless BBQ Brunch with Bacon Bar (July 13)
- Multiple ticket options: 4-day and single-day General Admission, VIP, and Platinum passes
- Convenient transportation and Uber zones for seamless festival access
Don’t miss your chance to experience the Windy City Smokeout’s unique blend of country music and BBQ culture this summer. Secure your tickets now and prepare for four days of unforgettable performances, delicious food, and vibrant community spirit in the heart of Chicago.