Windy City Smokeout rides back into the United Center

For four days, from July 11-14, the food and music festival known as Windy City Smokeout ran wild outside the United Center, 1901 West Madison Street. Parking Lot C was packed with around 100,000 country culture fans each day and some had traveled a great distance for the hillbilly hoedown.

Presented by the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant Bub City, barbecue continued to be an important aspect of the Smokeout. Close to 30 pit masters presented pork to the Windy City population and the variety was astounding.

Wristbands were used as tickets at the entrance and could also be used as payment when seeking sustenance.

Local team from Navy Pier's Reunion had Chef Art Smith serving up tangy buttermilk fried chicken tenders and Lexington Betty Smokehouse delivered a hefty helping of loaded brisket fries.

Ubons BBQ came all the way from Yahoo City, Mississippi to deep fry pork rinds and Kansas City had several representatives for their unique rubs onsite.

For entertainment, the programming was strong with Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum and Cody Johnson being part of the lineup culminating until Sunday with headliner Carrie Underwood who brought in a massive crowd.

DJ Pauly D left the Jersey Shore behind to play a mix of music that combined genres and kept folks dancing until recording artist Lee Brice arrived. The youngins had a ball in boots and bro-country was in full effect as far as fashion was concerned.

Liquor flowed like water within designated areas and popups throughout the festival grounds. Casamigos Tequila, Tito's Handmade Vodka and Jim Beam bourbon were among the libations offered. JoJo's ShakeBar heaped on the sweets and added Bailey's Liqueur for an extra kick.

Vendor tents were full of swag from companies such as VisitFortWorth and a few presented adult games such as a giant Jenga for attendees to play throughout the day.

The early bird gets the worm every year as massive numbers invade the festival the later it gets. As compared to previous years the pit crew planned better in 2024 and didn't run out of dishes this time out. The layout was also improved and made it easier to navigate for both newbies and seasoned ticket holders at the Smokeout.

This meaty jamboree isn't going anywhere soon, so gallop over to windycitysmokeout.com for next year's upcoming announcements. Hey y'all, there's even an official app for it!