Chicago’s United Center Becomes First Major Arena to Sell THC Drinks

(Photo: RYTHM)

Chicago’s United Center will begin offering hemp-derived THC beverages at concerts and live events, entering into a partnership with Chicago-based brands Señorita and RYTHM and becoming the first major U.S. arena to sell the products onsite.

The multi-year partnership brings THC drinks from Chicago-based brands Señorita and RYTHM to guests 21 and older at most concerts, shows and special events held at the venue. The agreement also designates RYTHM, Inc. as the United Center’s official THC sponsor.

The move reflects growing interest in non-alcoholic and cannabis-adjacent drink options at live entertainment venues, particularly in states where hemp-derived THC products are legal.

The United Center is home to the NBA team Chicago Bulls and NHL team Chicago Blackhawks.

The beverages are available at multiple points of sale throughout the arena, including bars, grab-and-go stations and a branded Señorita mobile bar. Availability may vary by event.

“This partnership is a major milestone for the city of Chicago, and we are proud to partner with the United Center to offer Illinois’ leading THC beverages,” RYTHM Chairman and interim CEO Ben Kovler said in a news release. “Consumers want non-alcoholic options, and leading venues are responding.”

United Center Chief Operating Officer Joe Myhra said the arena is continuing to adjust its food and beverage offerings as guest preferences change.

“We are excited to introduce Señorita and RYTHM to the arena, bringing fans a new way to enjoy their live entertainment experience,” Myhra said.

The partnership is scheduled to formally launch in early February with non-infused samples and branded giveaways at select concerts, including shows on Feb. 4 and Feb. 6. THC-infused products will be sold separately in accordance with age restrictions.

The initial lineup includes four hemp-derived THC drinks, each containing 5 milligrams of THC. Señorita’s offerings include Lime Jalapeño Margarita, Mango Margarita and Grapefruit Paloma flavors. RYTHM’s product features a sativa-leaning formulation with mandarin orange flavor and added caffeine.

The drinks are positioned as an alternative to alcohol, offering another option for adult concertgoers navigating evolving social drinking habits.

THC beverages from both brands are already sold at Chicago-area retailers such as Binny’s Beverage Depot, Woodman’s Food Markets and Foxtrot Market. Their arrival at the United Center expands that presence into one of the country’s highest-profile live entertainment settings.

While cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, hemp-derived THC products made from federally legal hemp are permitted in Illinois under current law, creating space for venues to explore limited partnerships tied to compliance and age verification.

Industry observers say the United Center agreement could serve as a test case for other large venues watching consumer response, regulatory clarity and operational impact.