Slideshow: Chicago’s Windy City Smokeout Showcases Top Country Music Talent

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The Castellows 3

CHICAGO – The Windy City Smokeout, which told place from July 11th-14th, 2024, and held against the backdrop of Chicago’s sweltering heat and humidity, sizzled with the energy of top country performers who brought the stage to life. This annual festival, a mecca for BBQ aficionados, music enthusiasts and beer lovers alike, transforms the area outside Chicago’s United Center into a vibrant celebration of all things summer.

Drawing thousands of country music fans from across the globe, the 2024 lineup boasted an impressive roster of stars including Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood, Chase Rice, Priscilla Block, Jake Worthington, Red Clay Strays and The Castellows. Each artist delivered performances that matched the intensity of the summer heat, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees.

Beyond the stellar musical acts, families enjoyed a variety of activities such as games, carnival rides, and interactive exhibits, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The festival grounds were practically buzzing as visitors sampled delicious BBQ from renowned vendors and savored ice-cold beverages from many participating beer vendors.

In essence, the Windy City Smokeout perfectly blended music, food, and fun, making it one of the highlights of the summer season … and provided top-tier country music and immersed attendees in the vibrant lifestyle and culture of the country music scene for an exhilarating four-day event.

Whether you’re a die-hard country music fan or simply looking to soak up the summer vibes, this festival always delivers an interactive and memorable weekend under the sun. The Smokeout not only met but exceeded expectations, but also offered attendees an experience that felt like they had stepped into the heart of a country music anthem.

HollywoodChicago.com Music Editor and Photographer Jeff “Doc” Doles and son Jimmy Doles were at the Smokeout and they teamed up to capture the following photos, both on and off the stage. Click “Next” and “Previous” to scan through the slideshow or jump directly to individual photos with the captioned links below. All photos © Jeff Doles and Jimmy Doles for HollywoodChicago.com.

1. SMOKEOUT1: Chase Rice Photo 1
2. SMOKEOUT2: Chase Rice 2
3. SMOKEOUT3: Fan Photo 1
4. SMOKEOUT4: Fan 2
5. SMOKEOUT5: Priscilla Block Photo 1
6. SMOKEOUT6: Priscilla Block 2
7. SMOKEOUT7: Jake Worthington Photo 1
8. SMOKEOUT8: Jake Worthington 2
9. SMOKEOUT9: Jake Worthington 3
10. SMOKEOUT10: Fan Photo 3
11. SMOKEOUT11: Fan 4
12. SMOKEOUT12: Red Clay Strays Photo 1
13. SMOKEOUT13: Red Clay Strays 2
14. SMOKEOUT14: Red Clay Strays 3
15. SMOKEOUT15: Fan Photo 5
16. SMOKEOUT16: Fan 6
17. SMOKEOUT17: The Castellows Photo 1
18. SMOKEOUT18: The Castellows 2
19. SMOKEOUT19: The Castellows 3
20. JSMOKEOUT20: The Castellows 4
21. SMOKEOUT21: The Castellows 5
22. SMOKEOUT22: The Castellows 6 (Interview)
23. SMOKEOUT23: The Castellows 7 (Back Stage)
24. SMOKEOUT24: Workers Photo at the Windy City Smokeout.

Article & Photography by: Jeff Doles, Music Editor (w/Jimmy Doles)
Published by: Patrick McDonald, Site Editor, HollywoodChicago.com