Chicago’s biggest party of the summer is back as Windy City Smokeout takes over the United Center parking lot from July 10 to 13. This four-day celebration blends mouthwatering barbecue, top-tier country music performances, and an unbeatable city atmosphere, making it the must-attend event for both locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re coming for the slow-smoked ribs or the chart-topping artists, Windy City Smokeout 2025 promises sizzling energy, flavorful eats, and unforgettable memories.
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🎸 Star-Studded Lineup Rocks the Windy City Smokeout
This year’s artist roster reads like a who’s who of the country music world. Headliners include:
- Thursday, July 10: Bailey Zimmerman and Koe Wetzel
- Friday, July 11: Old Dominion
- Saturday, July 12: Kane Brown and Megan Moroney
- Sunday, July 13: Jon Pardi and Riley Green
The supporting lineup features rising stars like Charles Wesley Godwin, Ella Langley, Josh Ross, and Angel White. Plus, surprise DJ sets and after-parties promise late-night excitement for those who want to keep the energy going long after the last guitar chord fades.
The Windy City Smokeout is also introducing morning performances and a Bottomless BBQ Brunch on Sunday, complete with live music and all-you-can-eat smoked delicacies.
🍗 Barbecue Heaven: 25+ Pitmasters Serve Up Perfection
One of the biggest draws of the Windy City Smokeout is its legendary barbecue lineup. Over 25 of the country’s best pitmasters will converge in Chicago, each bringing regional flavors and smoking styles that range from Texas brisket to Carolina pulled pork.
Chicago-Based Favorites:
- Green Street Smoked Meats
- Smoque BBQ
- Soul & Smoke
- Bub City
- Lexington Betty Smoke House
Out-of-Town Stars:
- Pappy’s Smokehouse (St. Louis)
- Little Miss BBQ (Phoenix)
- Meat Mitch (Kansas City)
- Ubon’s BBQ (Mississippi)
- Heritage BBQ (California)
Newcomers this year include Dayne’s Craft BBQ and a dedicated lounge for guests aged 21+, offering upscale food pairings and curated bourbon tastings.
⏰ Festival Schedule and Admission Info
The Windy City Smokeout kicks off on Thursday afternoon and runs through Sunday evening, each day packed with music, food, and fun.
- Thursday & Friday: Gates open at 2 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: Gates open at 1 PM
- All Days: Music ends around 10 PM
Ticket Options:
- Single-Day General Admission: $99 (Thursday and Friday only)
- 4-Day GA Pass: Sold Out
- VIP and Platinum Passes: Limited availability
- Children 10 and under: Free with a ticketed adult
Each ticket includes entry to concerts, BBQ vendors (food sold separately), and access to bars and lounges. Early arrival is recommended, especially for weekend headliners.
🚗 Getting There: Parking, Shuttles & More
If you’re driving in, secure your parking pass early—United Center lots fill up fast. Rideshare services have a designated drop-off point near Lot E. The festival also provides convenient shuttle options to key Chicago landmarks, including the Magnificent Mile and major CTA train hubs.
Public transit is a solid choice, with the CTA Blue Line offering easy access via the Illinois Medical District stop.
💥 Why Sunday Is the Can’t-Miss Day
While every day of Windy City Smokeout has something special, Sunday stands out. The atmosphere is more relaxed, the food options expand with the Bottomless BBQ Brunch, and the artist lineup blends powerhouse acts like Jon Pardi and Riley Green with emerging talent.
It’s the perfect day to slow down, sip a cold one, and soak in the full Windy City experience.
🔑 Key Point Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Dates | July 10–13 |
| Location | United Center Parking Lot, Chicago |
| Headliners | Zimmerman, Wetzel, Brown, Pardi |
| BBQ Vendors | 25+ local and national pitmasters |
| Passes Available | Single-Day GA, VIP, Platinum |
| Sunday Highlights | Brunch, Riley Green, Jon Pardi |
| Kid Policy | Under 10 attend free with adult |
| Transportation | Parking, CTA, Rideshare, Shuttles |
🎉 What Makes Windy City Smokeout Unmissable
- Epic Country Music: From country chart-toppers to breakthrough artists, every set delivers.
- BBQ Extravaganza: Taste your way across America’s best BBQ joints in one place.
- Chicago Vibe: A unique blend of Southern flavor and big-city style.
- All-Ages Fun: Family-friendly by day, party-ready by night.
- Memorable Extras: VIP lounges, brunch buffets, DJ sets, and more.
Whether you’re a BBQ connoisseur, a country music die-hard, or someone just looking for a high-energy summer event, Windy City Smokeout delivers on every front. Tickets are flying, and with Chicago’s summer in full swing, there’s no better place to be.
Get your wristbands, gather your crew, and head to the United Center parking lot. This year’s Windy City Smokeout is ready to bring the heat — don’t get left out!
