We here at Catalyst Ranch believe in collaboration as a key tool in innovation and creativity. When you're in the creating or building stage of a project, the pairing of two different things that might seem simple or not important can turn out to be one of the most vital components you undertake. So when we see the pairing of great BBQ and music in Chicago, we have to pay sit up and pay attention.
A breakout team collaborating on a creative brief at Catalyst Ranch
Windy City Smokeout is one of those great events that shows how innovation and collaboration truly elevates an experience. Starting today through Sunday, an amazing gathering of food and music will take place. Windy City Smokeout brings together two iconic staples in Chicago's history, BBQ and great live music.
We all can remember those summers and that one favorite restaurant that serves one of kind ribs or pulled pork. Or spending that 4th of July in the backyard with the brisket slow cooking while you play bags or light sparklers. It's one of the beautiful things about food and that shared experience of a group of friends and family sharing that amazing meal. When you smell that honey barbecue in the air, it instantly takes you back to that moment. That feeling of nostalgia brings it all home and is what makes BBQ such an iconic experience: All the different ways it's prepared and cooked, those family recipes handed down generations makes it so distinguishable from anything else you've tasted.
We also share that with music. How many times have you been driving alone in the car when that song from high school comes on and you just have to sing it? You don't just remember the lyrics; you remember the partner you broke up with and this song playing on repeat. You remember you and your friends at that first concert you went to on your own. The sounds, the lights, the excitement.
That's what makes this festival such an amazing event. You share the great food cooked or grilled to perfection while you hear Carrie Underwood sing "Jesus, take the wheel" or "Before he cheats." Windy City Smokeout brings this all together in the that legendary destination for food and music: Chicago.
Enjoy the festivities not far from Catalyst Ranch and the West Loop: The lineup and grills are lit from Thursday to Sunday at the United Center.
