Join us at the Windy City Smokeout 2026, where the excitement is building with headliners like Lainey Jordan and Hootie & the Blowfish. This year, we are thrilled to announce that Oak will be taking the stage as the main headliner.

For the first time in history, Wednesday will feature the "Biggest Hour," a unique event that promises to be a highlight of the festival. This is an incredible opportunity to engage with supporters and share our vision for a better Minnesota.

At Andy for Governor, we are dedicated to fostering a community that values transparency and clarity. Our campaign is built on the principles of open dialogue and active participation. We invite you to explore our platform, attend our events, and consider volunteering with us.

Stay tuned for more updates as we prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Windy City Smokeout!

Planning a Trip to a Chicago Summer Festival from Minneapolis

Windy City Smokeout is a country music and barbecue festival held in Chicago, pairing big-name country acts with pitmasters and food vendors. For Minnesotans, it is a long but manageable trip, and a little planning makes the weekend far easier. Lineups, dates and set times can change, so always confirm the details on the festival's official channels before you commit to travel or tickets.

Getting there

The drive from Minneapolis to Chicago usually takes around six to seven hours, depending on traffic and stops. Many people split the trip with friends to share fuel and parking costs. Rail and air are also options; if you go without a car, check how you will get from your arrival point to the festival site, since downtown parking near large events tends to be limited and expensive.

Making the most of the day

  • Buy tickets only from official sellers to avoid counterfeit passes.
  • Check the bag policy in advance; large outdoor festivals often restrict bag sizes and items.
  • Plan for the weather. Chicago summers can be hot and humid, so sunscreen, water and comfortable shoes matter.
  • Book accommodation early, as hotel prices often rise on big event weekends.
  • Agree on a meeting point with your group in case phones lose signal in the crowd.

Community events closer to home

Festivals are a reminder of how much people value gathering in shared spaces, and the same spirit drives local civic life. If you would rather connect with neighbours here in Minnesota, take a look at our upcoming campaign events, where conversations are open and everyone is welcome. You can also read about the ideas we are working on in our platform, or find a shift that fits your schedule on the volunteer page. Whether you spend your summer at a concert or a community meeting, showing up is what builds strong communities.