THUNDER BAY - The hickory smokescreen, and aroma of grilled meat on Park Avenue can only mean one thing in Thunder Bay come August.
For the sixth consecutive year, three days have been reserved for the rib festival which expects to bring in 35,000 people from Thunder Bay and beyond.
“Look at all the delicious food!” Christina Sameluk said as to why she likes Ribfest. “It’s cheap, you can bring leftovers home, so you don’t have to cook the next day.”
Four different rib vendors, all from Southern Ontario, were set up with their billboard style displays to deliver the succulent meat.
Sandy Hartley, manager of Ribs Royale, said he loves coming to Thunder Bay.
“We do 17 shows countrywide,” Hartley said. “A lot of people know about us.”
The Las Vegas-based vendor said the barbecue selection is what makes Ribs Royale the most acclaimed.
“We smoke our ribs on cherry wood, and finish them on a charcoal barbecue,” he said. “A lot of teams use propane… but charcoal is what everybody loves.”
Of course, the festival has more to offer than food, according to Gladys Berringer.
Berringer, the executive director of Our Kids Count, was the central organizer of this year’s event.
“It’s our major fundraiser for the year, and we’re totally in charge of it this year,” Barringer said. “We hope the community enjoys some of the changes we’ve made.”
A kub car race, enhanced play area, and a guest appearance from Rachel DeBarros from the TV Series, All Girls Garage, are some of the unique features.
What's more is that the Red River Rumble Car Show will, ironically, not take place on Red River. The car display will occupy some of Cumberland Street and take place on Sunday.
The forecast is expected to maintain its 20-degree weather for all three days.
Admission to the grounds is free, and the venues open at 11 a.m. each day.
