If you’re a fan of good food, great music, and a lively atmosphere, RibFest is the place to be. This annual celebration of all things ribs has been drawing crowds for years. We headed out to RibFest 2024, and here’s what it was all about.
The Sizzling History of RibFest
RibFest, in one iteration or another, has been serving barbeque since the early 1990s when it all started as a small community event, where local pitmasters would come together to showcase their grilling skills. But as word quickly spread, RibFest grew into a nationwide phenomenon, attracting thousands of barbeque lovers from nearby towns and cities.
What sets the Northern Heat Rib Series RibFest apart from other food festivals is its dedication to authenticity. The pitmasters who participate in RibFest are the real deal — many have been perfecting their craft for decades, using recipes that have been passed down through generations. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the tradition, the camaraderie, and the shared love of barbecue.
Gibsons Whiskey: The Perfect Pairing
In 2024, RibFest had a little something extra to offer — Gibsons Whiskey as the official co-sponsor. If you haven’t tried pairing whiskey with barbecue, you’re in for a treat. The rich, smoky flavors of Gibsons Whiskey complement the tangy, sweet, and spicy notes of the ribs in a way that will make you drool.
Gibsons has a long-standing reputation for crafting high-quality Canadian whiskey, and their partnership with RibFest is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re sipping on a classic Gibsons on the rocks or enjoying a specially crafted RibFest cocktail, the whiskey adds a layer of sophistication to the down-home barbecue experience. So, as you stroll through the festival, make sure to stop by the Gibsons Whiskey booth to try a sample or two — you won’t regret it!
The RibFest Experience
RibFest is a one-of-a-kind experience with plenty of barbecue trailers, each one offering its unique take on ribs. You can spend hours eating, sampling everything from sweet and sticky baby back ribs to spicy and smoky St. Louis-style ribs. And it’s not just ribs on the menu — there’s also pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and all the classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
But the food is just the beginning of the fun. The festival also features live music from local and national acts. Whether you’re into blues, rock, country, or something in between, there’s a stage with your name on it. The music adds to the festive atmosphere, making RibFest an unforgettable experience.
And let’s not forget about the competitions. You get a chance to be the judge of your favorite ribs and more. Many RibFests offer a “People’s Choice” award, where attendees can vote for their favorite ribs. So, be sure to try as many as you can — you wouldn’t want to miss out on the chance to crown the next RibFest champion.
RibFest Waterloo – Our Experience
Matthew and I headed out to RIM Park in Waterloo for RibFest, and the day couldn’t have been more perfect. There was plenty of parking, and we were there early enough in the day that the crowds were manageable.
There was great live music playing, and there was a fun and festive vibe to the whole event. But of course, we were there for the BBQ.
We started with the Texas ribs, and they were delish! The sauce had a bit of heat to it, just like we’d expected. The bones were a little dry at the ends, though, which meant a lot of chewing.
Then we sampled the ribs from the Kentucky Smoke House, and boy were those delish! They were meaty, moist, and the sauce had a touch of sweetness to it. We also got a pound of pulled pork to take home and share with the kids.
Prices were fixed at $20 for a half rack and $34 for a full rack, so they weren’t exactly cheap. There were other foods to be had, including blooming onions, poutine, and other food stalls.
We also had to check out the Gibson’s tent. I had a delish cocktail that paired so nicely with the ribs.
All in all it was a great day out, and I’d go back for sure!
Is RibFest Suitable for Kids?
Yes and no. We certainly did see kids there, but I think it was mainly aimed at adults. There were some carnival rides on site that would appeal to kids, but those tickets were extra, and the rides were pretty empty.
RibFest 2024: Where to Find the Fun
RibFest 2024 has finished for the year, bringing barbecue goodness to cities across Canada. On May 17-20, Binbrook kicked off the season with its vibrant community and family-friendly atmosphere. And things wrapped up in Lindsay from August 30-September 1.
Most locations host plenty of on-site parking, but be sure to look at the schedule of events and locations before heading out so you know what to expect.
See You at RibFest!
Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a fun way to spend a weekend, RibFest is the place to be. With a lineup of exciting locations, the unbeatable pairing of ribs and Gibsons Whiskey, and a whole lot of good times, it’s no wonder RibFest has become a popular tradition. So grab your friends, bring your appetite, and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest festivals of the summer.