Windy City Smokeout Lineup 2025: Who's Playing and When?

Windy City Smokeout 2025 lineup
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A new festival is heading to Chicago next spring. It will be taking place at the United Center, 1901 W Madison St., from July 11-12, 2025. The Windy City Smokeout will offer all the food and music fans an event that combines the talents of Chicago Chefs and some of the biggest names in Country Music.

The two-day festival will feature country music stars such as Zac Brown Band, Luke Combs, and Miranda Lambert. Other artists include Chris Stapleton, Dierks Bentley, and Jason Aldean. In addition to the music, there will be a variety of food vendors serving up everything from barbecue to pizza. There will also be a craft beer garden and a variety of games and activities.

Tickets for the Windy City Smokeout go on sale Friday, March 31st, at 10am. The event is expected to sell out quickly, so be sure to get your tickets early. Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

Headliners to Heat Up Chicago

Prepare to be mesmerized as Windy City Smokeout 2025 unveils an extraordinary lineup of headliners, ready to ignite Chicago with their electrifying performances. From legendary rock icons to chart-topping country stars and trailblazing hip-hop artists, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable musical extravaganza.

The Indomitable Rock Legends

Buckle up for an evening of pure rock and roll as the legendary Def Leppard takes the stage. Their timeless anthems, such as “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Rock of Ages,” will reverberate through the festival grounds, leaving an indelible mark on the Chicago skyline.

Metallica, the heavy metal titans, will unleash a barrage of their thunderous riffs and soaring vocals. Their epic performances are known to captivate audiences with an unparalleled intensity, promising a night of headbanging and unforgettable musical moments.

Joining these rock icons is the enigmatic Ozzy Osbourne, the “Prince of Darkness.” Known for his theatrical stage presence and electrifying guitar work, Ozzy’s performance is sure to be an unforgettable spectacle, leaving a lasting impression on the Windy City.

Emerging Artists to Watch

The Windy City Smokeout lineup 2025 boasts a diverse range of rising stars who are making waves in the music industry.

Artists to Keep an Eye On

Among the most promising emerging artists scheduled to perform at the festival are:

The War and Treaty: A husband-and-wife duo known for their soulful blend of folk, blues, and R&B.
Yola: A British singer-songwriter whose retro-inspired soul music has earned her critical acclaim.
Jade Bird: An English singer-songwriter who has gained popularity for her raw and emotional performances.

Blues Legends Take the Stage

The Windy City Smokeout is renowned for its exceptional lineup of blues legends, and the 2025 edition promises an unforgettable experience. Prepare to witness the magic of these iconic musicians as they ignite the stage with their timeless melodies.

Blues Royalty: Jimmy “Duck” Holmes

Jimmy “Duck” Holmes, a true blues legend, will grace the Windy City Smokeout stage with his captivating guitar work and soulful vocals. As a founding member of The Holmes Brothers, he has left an indelible mark on the blues landscape for over six decades. His raw, resonator-driven sound and heartfelt lyrics will transport the audience to the very birthplace of the blues.

Born in Mississippi in 1940, Holmes began playing music at an early age, honing his skills in rural juke joints. He later formed The Holmes Brothers with his siblings, Wendell and Sherman, and together they achieved critical acclaim and countless awards. Holmes’ distinctive slide guitar style and personal lyrics have earned him a devoted following around the world.

At the Windy City Smokeout, Holmes will showcase his unparalleled musical prowess, transporting the audience to the heart of the blues tradition. Expect an unforgettable performance that pays tribute to the genre’s rich heritage and its enduring legacy.

Name	Instrument	Debut Album	Awards
Jimmy “Duck” Holmes	Guitar, Vocals	In the Heat of the Day (1984)	– Grammy Award (2011) – Blues Music Award (2005, 2008, 2015)

Cutting-Edge Electronic Performers

Windy City Smokeout 2025 is set to feature a stellar lineup of cutting-edge electronic performers. From house and techno to trance and bass music, the festival will offer a diverse range of electronic sounds to keep attendees dancing throughout the weekend.

Above & Beyond

The legendary trio Above & Beyond will headline the electronic stage at Windy City Smokeout 2025. Known for their uplifting trance anthems and emotive live performances, the group is sure to provide a memorable experience for festivalgoers.

Fisher

Australian DJ and producer Fisher has quickly risen to stardom in the house music scene. His infectious beats and energetic sets have made him a popular act at festivals around the world. Expect a high-octane performance from Fisher at Windy City Smokeout 2025.

Louis The Child

Chicago’s own Louis The Child will bring their signature blend of future bass and indie dance to the festival. The duo has been making waves in the electronic music scene for their innovative sound and captivating live performances.

Additional Electronic Performers

In addition to the headlining acts, Windy City Smokeout 2025 will feature a wide range of emerging and established electronic artists. The lineup includes:

Artist	Genre
AceMo	House
Audien	Trance
CloZee	Bass Music
DJ Snake	Trap
Diplo	Future Bass
Ekali	Dubstep
Illenium	Melodic Dubstep
K?d	Bass House
Malaa	G-House
Marshmello	Future Bass
Rezz	Hard Techno
Seven Lions	Dubstep
Skrillex	Trap
Zedd	Progressive House

R&B and Soul Standouts

The Windy City Smokeout’s 2025 lineup boasts an impressive roster of R&B and soul acts, including veterans and rising stars alike. Here are some of the highlights:

H.E.R.

The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter is known for her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics. Her performance at the Smokeout will be a mix of her biggest hits and new material.

Giveon

The R&B crooner has made a name for himself with his smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling. His set will feature songs from his debut album, “Take Time,” as well as some new tunes.

Ari Lennox

The North Carolina native has gained critical acclaim for her sultry vocals and evocative lyrics. Her performance at the Smokeout will showcase her signature blend of R&B, soul, and funk.

6lack

The Atlanta-based rapper and singer has earned a reputation for his laid-back style and honest lyrics. His set will include hits like “PRBLMS” and “East Atlanta Love Letter.”

Summer Walker

The Georgia-born singer-songwriter is known for her sultry vocals and introspective lyrics. Her performance at the Smokeout will feature songs from her debut album, “Last Day of Summer,” as well as some new material.

Indie Rock Revolutionaries

Indie rock has always been at the forefront of innovation and Wind City Smokeout 2025 promises to be no exception. Here are some of the indie rock revolutionaries who will be gracing the stages.

The Strokes

The Strokes are one of the most influential indie rock bands of all time. Their debut album, Is This It, was a critical and commercial success, and their music has been praised for its catchy melodies, sharp lyrics, and innovative sound.

Arctic Monkeys

The Arctic Monkeys are another hugely successful indie rock band. Their music is known for its witty lyrics, catchy melodies, and energetic live performances.

Tame Impala

Tame Impala is a psychedelic rock band from Australia. Their music is known for its dreamy soundscapes, swirling guitars, and ethereal vocals.

Phoenix

Phoenix is a French indie rock band. Their music is known for its upbeat tempos, catchy melodies, and dance-able rhythms.

The Killers

The Killers are an American indie rock band. Their music is known for its soaring melodies, anthemic choruses, and epic soundscapes.

Spoon

Spoon is an American indie rock band. Their music is known for its catchy melodies, clever lyrics, and polished production. They have been releasing critically acclaimed albums for over two decades.

Global Rhythms and Sounds

The Windy City Smokeout lineup for 2025 boasts a diverse array of global rhythms and sounds, promising an unforgettable musical experience.

Latin Fire

Sizzling rhythms and infectious melodies from Latin America ignite the stage. Salsa, merengue, and bachata ignite the crowd’s dancing spirits.

African Grooves

Captivating beats and soulful harmonies transport listeners to the heart of Africa. Afrobeat, highlife, and soukous rhythms paint a vibrant musical tapestry.

Asian Fusions

East meets West in enchanting performances that blend traditional Asian sounds with modern influences. Tabla, qin, and koto intertwine to create a unique sonic journey.

Middle Eastern Melody

Hypnotic rhythms and exotic scales transport listeners to the enchanting lands of the Middle East. Traditional Arabic, Persian, and Turkish melodies evoke a sense of mystery and wonder.

European Elegance

Classic tunes from Europe serenade the crowd with timeless ballads, lively folk tunes, and sophisticated jazz.

Reggae Vibes

Mellow and infectious reggae beats invite the crowd to sway along. Jamaican and Caribbean rhythms infuse the air with a laid-back island atmosphere.

Country Crossroads

The spirit of the American South takes center stage with toe-tapping country music. Heartfelt ballads, twangy guitar riffs, and soulful vocals evoke a sense of nostalgia.

Artist	Genre
Buena Vista Social Club	Latin Fire
Fela Kuti & The Egypt 80	African Grooves
Yo-Yo Ma	Asian Fusions
Omar Faruk Tekbilek	Middle Eastern Melody
Van Morrison	European Elegance
Bob Marley & The Wailers	Reggae Vibes
Johnny Cash	Country Crossroads

Culinary Delights to Savor

The Windy City Smokeout 2025 will showcase a tantalizing array of culinary delights that will entice taste buds and satisfy cravings. From mouthwatering barbecue to delectable desserts, the festival offers a smorgasbord of treats to indulge in.

Barbecue Extravaganza

Indulge in the smoky aromas and succulent flavors of barbecue prepared by renowned pitmasters. From classic pulled pork to juicy brisket and aromatic ribs, there will be something to gratify every palate.

Seafood Sensations

Savor the freshness of the sea with an array of seafood dishes. From tender lobster rolls to crispy fried calamari, there will be plenty of options to satisfy seafood lovers.

International Flavors

Explore culinary traditions from around the world with a diverse selection of international cuisine. From spicy tacos to aromatic curries, the festival offers a culinary adventure for the adventurous.

Vegan Delights

Catering to those with dietary restrictions, the Windy City Smokeout will feature a variety of vegan-friendly options. From savory burgers to flavorful wraps, there will be plenty to please plant-based enthusiasts.

Sweet Indulgences

Indulge in a sugary wonderland with a vast array of desserts. From classic pies to decadent cakes, there will be something to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Craft Beer and Spirits

Complement your culinary experience with a refreshing beverage from the festival’s extensive craft beer and spirits selection. From local brews to international vintages, there will be something to quench every thirst.

Culinary Competitions

Witness the culinary prowess of talented chefs in a series of exciting competitions. From grilling contests to baking battles, the festival will showcase the creativity and skill of barbecue enthusiasts.

Family-Friendly Fare

Bring the little ones along for a fun-filled culinary experience with a selection of kid-friendly dishes. From popcorn to hot dogs, there will be plenty to keep young palates happy.

Attendees	Expected
Adults (21+)	50,000+
Children (12-17)	10,000+
Children (under 12)	Free admission

Interactive Art Experiences

The Windy City Smokeout lineup for 2025 is set to feature a variety of interactive art experiences that will add an extra layer of entertainment to the festival. These experiences will include:

Light Painting

Attendees will be able to create their own light paintings using glow sticks and other light sources. The paintings will be projected onto a large screen, creating a unique and ever-changing work of art.

Virtual Reality

Several virtual reality experiences will be available, allowing attendees to explore different worlds and interact with virtual objects.

3D Mapping

3D mapping technology will be used to project images and animations onto the buildings and structures around the festival site. This will create a visually stunning and immersive experience.

Interactive Sculptures

Several interactive sculptures will be placed throughout the festival site, inviting attendees to touch, climb, and play with them.

Kinetic Art

Kinetic art installations will use wind, water, and other elements to create moving and changing works of art.

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality experiences will allow attendees to interact with digital content superimposed on the real world.

Projection Mapping

Projection mapping will be used to create immersive and interactive light displays on the festival’s main stage and other structures.

Interactive Light Installations

Various interactive light installations will invite attendees to play with light and create their own unique experiences.

Art Installations

Table of art installations:

Artist	Artwork	Description
Studio Drift	Franchise Freedom	A swarm of illuminated drones that interact with the audience.
ES Devlin	Forest of Light	A large-scale immersive forest made of light and sound.
Jason Bruges Studio	Light Lines	A series of interactive light sculptures that respond to human movement.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Sustainable Practices

The Windy City Smokeout prioritizes environmental sustainability by implementing initiatives such as:

Sustainable waste management systems
Energy-efficient lighting and equipment
Recyclable and compostable materials

Accessibility Measures

The festival ensures inclusivity by implementing accessibility measures:

Wheelchair-accessible pathways and seating
ASL interpreters for select performances
Sensory-friendly zones for individuals with sensory sensitivities
Accessible restrooms and concessions

Detailed Sustainability Initiatives

10. Carbon Offset Program

The festival partners with organizations to offset carbon emissions from festival activities, ensuring a net-zero environmental impact.

Windy City Smokeout Lineup 2025: A Preview of the Best in BBQ

The Windy City Smokeout is one of the most anticipated BBQ events of the year, and the 2025 lineup is shaping up to be one of the best yet. With a mix of BBQ legends and up-and-coming pitmasters, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event. Here’s a look at some of the highlights:

Franklin Barbecue (Austin, TX): Franklin Barbecue is widely considered to be one of the best BBQ joints in the country, and pitmaster Aaron Franklin is a legend in the BBQ world. Franklin will be bringing his signature brisket, ribs, and pulled pork to the Windy City Smokeout this year.
Smoque BBQ (Chicago, IL): Smoque BBQ is one of Chicago’s most popular BBQ restaurants, and pitmaster Barry Sorkin is known for his innovative approach to BBQ. Sorkin will be serving up his award-winning brisket, pulled pork, and ribs at the Windy City Smokeout this year.
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q (Decatur, AL): Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q is a family-owned and operated BBQ restaurant that has been serving up some of the best BBQ in Alabama for over 70 years. Gibson will be bringing his famous white BBQ sauce and pulled pork to the Windy City Smokeout this year.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que (Kansas City, MO): Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a Kansas City institution, and pitmaster Jeff Stehney is known for his award-winning ribs. Stehney will be bringing his signature ribs, as well as his brisket and pulled pork, to the Windy City Smokeout this year.
The Salt Lick (Driftwood, TX): The Salt Lick is a Texas BBQ legend, and pitmaster Scott Roberts is known for his mouthwatering brisket. Roberts will be bringing his signature brisket, as well as his ribs and pulled pork, to the Windy City Smokeout this year.