Windy City Smokeout celebrated country music and barbecue for the 12th time

For four days, Windy City Smokeout was lit at the outdoor fenced-in area just outside the United Center on West Madison Street in Chicago. The year 2025 marks the 12th time for the organization dedicated to country music and barbecue to occur in the Windy City.

Beginning on July 10 at 2 p.m., the festival opened to patrons who were ready for fun under the sun. DJ Sommer provided tunes and Dallas singer Angel White kicked off the live music from the stage. This was the perfect time to take advantage of the multiple photo opportunities and to partake in the country cooking offered onsite before the ravenous crowds arrived later in the evening.

Vendor booths were placed along the grounds to highlight what companies offered, such as Dunkin', Tecovas and LIV Golf. Booze brands ranged from Flecha Azul Tequila, Aviation Gin and Aperol Spritz to accompany the bar booths strewn across the lot.

Finding the best vittles with so many choices can feel overwhelming, but the best places to start are with local Chicago-based restaurants like Lexington Betty Smokehouse and Green Street Smoked Meats. Smoque BBQ brought the beefs and Reunion served up Chef Art Smith's signature chicken. For dessert, Dayne's Banana Bourbon Delight was a treat and JoJo's ShakeBAR piled on the chocolate for their Country Shake.

VIP experiences and shaded pop-up areas proved crucial in avoiding the blazing sun. As with many outdoor activities, the weather proved to be a challenge this year. Umbrellas were not allowed to avoid blocking sight lines and ponchos were suggested instead.

The place was evacuated before headliner Bailey Zimmerman could perform and then resumed to finish off the night's Thursday festivities. To combat more predicted severe rainfall, the lineup was moved earlier, so headliners Old Dominion could finish their set and revelers could avoid a repeat of the night before.

While the country sunshine was a treat to enjoy for Chicagoans who spend much of the calendar year cooped up, the festival organizers should plan for unexpected weather next year.

The United Center building could be opened for an indoor stage as an alternative and the additional bathrooms would be handy to have, similar to past years at the Smokeout.

Nothing was going to stand in the way of such talented musicians as Megan Moroney and Kane Brown on Saturday, July 12.

The party didn't stop until Jon Pardi finished on Sunday, July 13. Overall, things could have been much worse and the team pivoting on Friday was a smart move.

Windy City Smokeout continues to grow and expand with the high demand of country music fans. How the producers adapt to the massive following in the future will determine the festival's success. To follow the journey, visit windycitysmokeout.com.