The Windy City Smokeout, the nation’s premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival, has returned to Chicago’s iconic United Center from July 11-14, 2024! Known for its incredible blend of top-tier country music and mouthwatering barbecue, this festival has earned its place as a must-visit event, especially after winning the 2022 Academy of Country Music Awards’ “Festival of the Year.”

This year’s tenth Windy City Smokeout promises to be larger and better than ever. Headlining the stellar lineup are country music icons like eight-time GRAMMY winner Carrie Underwood, CMA Award winner Cody Johnson, CMA nominee Parker McCollum, the 2022 ACM New Male Artist of the Year, and five-time GRAMMY Award nominee Thomas Rhett.

Located at 1901 W. Madison Street, the United Center provides a perfect backdrop for this vibrant celebration of music and food. Over four days, enjoy a seamless blend of country music and gourmet barbecue, making Windy City Smokeout a celebration of some of the best BBQ you’ll find anywhere. 

Windy City Smokeout isn’t just about music, It brings together nearly thirty of the world’s top pitmasters, including six new teams this year, offering a wide range of barbecue styles to satisfy every taste. Curated by Chicago’s Lettuce Entertain You, guests get to enjoy mouthwatering ribs and brisket to unique regional specialties. It’s a fun celebration of some of the best BBQ you’ll find anywhere! 

Whether you’re a die-hard country music fan, a BBQ aficionado, or just looking for a memorable weekend, this experience is one you won’t want to miss. Windy City Smokeout is a highlight of Chicago’s summer festival scene with top-tier performances and the best BBQ! 

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I'm a Caracas native, living in Chicago. I have a passion for travel, culture, food, adventure and discovering new places off the beaten path. I still remember the first trip I took internationally as a child and the excitement that it was to know that everyone will speak another language. Traveling was cool—waking up early to make the trip to the airport, packing too much and then realizing it’s much better to pack light. Now a travel writer, I get to see new places continually, check out new restaurants, and talk about my experiences. Just as I’m about to be done with a trip, I see myself at the airport daydreaming while staring at the departure board thinking about my next destination.