The largest Ribfest in Canada is back at Spencer Smith Park for the long weekend but this year is very different from the rest. Organizers are trying something new to help off-set rising costs for just about everything.
Burlington Ribfest, run by the Rotary Burlington Lakeshore, was in full swing on its first day.
“We had to take a bit of a break during COVID and we ran a few very successful drive thru Ribfest, but we’re so excited to be back in the park,” said organizer Brent Paszt.
This year brings its own challenges, organizers say they are feeling the financial effects of putting on an event of this size and there will be a $2 entrance fee at the gate.
“Where we saw costs of many things like toilets, fencing, tables and chairs, that you assume are in the park at these events, but they cost a lot of money, and in many cases they’ve almost doubled for us,” said Paszt.
The event has been around since 1996, and since that day, all proceeds go toward supporting the Rotary Club’s community and international initiatives.
“We’ve raised almost $5 million in the 26 years of this event,” said Paszt. “That money has gone to the Carpenter Hospice in Burlington, Joseph Brant Hospital, Joseph Brant Museum, a whole host of other organizations and charities.”
And more support is coming with positive reviews coming from the many people who attended the fest on Friday.
Most of the attendees say its all about the three S’s, smoke, spice and sauce.
The Ribfest is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday until 11 p.m., while on Monday it closes up at 7 p.m.
