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Ribfest Bannerperson eating a rib up-close

Ribfest

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Home/...AttractionsFestivals and EventsRibfest

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Get ready for a rib-tastic weekend! Retro Ribfest is back again this summer, promising an unforgettable three-day extravaganza. Enjoy top-notch ribs and other delicious food concessions from across North America paired with the sweet sounds of country, blues, rock, and world music. But that's not all! Play all day in the Party Tyme Fun Zone and make unforgettable memories with friends and family. Don't miss out on the fun!

Mark your calendars and join us July 18 - 20 at Richmond Green Park, 1300 Elgin Mills Road East.

Dates and Times:

  • Friday, July 18  I  12 - 10 p.m.  I  Country/Blues vibes 
  • Saturday, July 19  I  11 a.m. - 10 p.m.  I  Rockin' performances
  • Sunday, July 20  I  11 a.m. - 8 p.m.  I  Global beats from around the world

*Please note, entrance to the park will be closed approximately 15 minutes prior to end time.

Download Your Friday Rib Coupon

 A few friendly reminders before you come to Ribfest:

  1. FREE GENERAL ADMISSION - Access to the Ribfest festival grounds is open to the public.

  2. Only service animals that are trained to perform essentials tasks for their companions are welcome into festival grounds. Emotional support animals do not meet the criteria of a service animal and unfortunately are not permitted into the festival grounds due to the nature of this festival. Pets are welcome on the rest of the Richmond Green Park grounds. 
  3. Some vendors, including the Ribbers, will be accepting cash only. ATM's are located near the amusement area.
  4. Only empty reusable water bottles or sealed bottles are permitted on-site. Attendees can refill their bottles at Richmond Hill’s Fill It Up Water Trailer. Unsealed bottles will be emptied upon entering the event grounds.

 Festival Details

Meet the Ribbers 

Bibbs Texas BBQ

Want your baby back ribs? In addition to the side ribs, chicken and pulled pork, Bibbs Texas BBQ is the only ribber on the circuit selling baby back ribs! Learn more about Bibbs Texas BBQ.

Billy Bones BBQ

Celebrating more than 30 years of excellence! Billy Bones BBQ sauces only have won over 250 awards including 50 first place finishes. Learn more about Billy Bones BBQ.

Camp 31

Along with the awards and trophies, Camp 31 is one of the highest productive BBQ teams on the road today, cooking the best Southern Style Bar-B-Que around - slow smoked over hickory logs ensuring the tenderest meat and the most flavorful rib experience! Learn more about Camp 31.

Hawgs Gone Wild BBQ

Hawgs Gone Wild BBQ has been on the barbecue competition circuit for the past ten years. With their famous sweet and sticky BBQ sauce, Hawgs Gone Wild has won well over 150 awards! Learn more about Hawgs Gone Wild BBQ.

Sticky Fingers

Sticky Fingers is unabashedly obsessed with barbecue. Enjoy the messiness in all it's glory! Dig in. Get messy. And whatever you do, don't apologize when things get sticky. Learn more about Sticky Fingers.

Entertainment Schedules

Friday, July 18

Start TimeArtist/Band Name

12 - 4 p.m.

Canned Music

6 - 8 p.m.

Jay Blues Trio 

8 - 10 p.m.

Jared & Brooklyn

Jared & Brooklyn - Live on the Main Stage on Friday, July 18 at 8 p.m.

Jared & Brooklyn

Jared is an acoustic looping artist who performs a broad range of covers spanning rock, country, R&B with a touch of theater as well as his unique heartfelt brand of original music."

Saturday, July 19

Start Time

Artist/Band Name

11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.

Sherry Joan

1:30 - 2 p.m.

Rubicon Taste Challenge 

2 - 4 p.m.

Murray Drive

4 - 5 p.m.

Rib Eating Contest

5 - 7 p.m.

Floral Park

8 - 10 p.m.

HIP Experience

The HIP Experience - Live on the Main Stage on Saturday, July 19 at 8 p.m.

HIP Experience

The HIP Experience was formed in 2017 shortly after the passing of Gord Downie in October of that year. After an initial memorial tribute concert, the band continued with one goal in mind, to establish themselves as Canada's most authentic Tragically Hip show, dedicated to playing songs note for note. The Hip Experience is a crowd favourite at festivals with performances that are dedicated to detail and delivered with a high level of energy, capturing the spirit of the Hip with each song. 

Sunday, July 20

Start Time

Artist/Band Name

11 a.m – 1:15 p.m.

Inka's Band

1:15 – 1:45 p.m.

Rubicon Taste Challenge 

2 – 4 p.m.

St. O

4 – 4:15 p.m.

Rib Judging

4:15 – 4:45 p.m.

Canned Music

5 – 7 p.m.

Exodus (Bob Marley Tribute)

Exodus (Bob Marley) - Live on the Main Stage on Sunday, July 20 at 5 p.m.

Bob Marley - Exodus

Lazo, a Juno Award-winning reggae artist, is known for his uplifting music, thoughtful lyrics, and ability to deeply connect with audiences. Originally from the Caribbean, Lazo began his music career at 15 and later moved to Canada, where he formed multiple bands and released several acclaimed albums, including Heart and Soul, which won him a Juno in 2000. He has toured extensively across North and South America, performing both his original work and as part of major acts like The Wailers and Classic Albums Live: Bob Marley – Legend. Lazo continues to inspire with his vibrant performances and meaningful reggae music.

*Schedule Subject to Change* 

Interactive Areas 

Ribfest offers a variety of exciting activities and activations for the whole family to participate in and enjoy! 

Amusement Area

Party Tyme Treats and Amusements

Party Tyme Treats and Amusements is a family-owned and operated company with over 10 years of experience, proudly offering some of the most unique and thrilling inflatables and attractions around the region.

To enjoy our exciting attractions, you may purchase a pass on-site:

  • Single Day FunZone Pass: Grants unlimited access to Party Tyme Fun Zones for one full day.
  • Full Weekend FunZone Pass: Enjoy unlimited access to Party Tyme Fun Zones for all three days!
  • Single Ride Tickets: Available for those who prefer to pay per ride ($5 each).
Party Tyme Fun Zone Attractions: 
  • The G-Force Spin Ride
  • Rock Walls
  • Paddle Boats
  • Challenging Obstacle Courses
  • Exciting Slides
  • Classic Bouncy Castles
  • Gladiators/Joust Challenge 

  • And more new interactive games for all ages!

*attractions subject to change 

Marketplace and Artist Exhibit

In addition to great food, we have a select group of artists and vendors showcasing and selling their products onsite.

  • Cozmic Weaver Gemz
  • J & C
  • Mini Me Munchkins
  • Luckycat Handmade Inc
  • Mike W. Hammer 
  • Rad Caricature
  • The Handmade Life
  • Triple C Boutique

Activity and Contest Hub

Location: Agriculture Building 1

Dates and Times:

  • Friday, July 18: 5 - 8 p.m.
  • Saturday, July 19: 12 - 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 20: 12 - 5 p.m.

Join family-friendly fun for all ages! Enjoy classic field games, participate in a contest or try your hand at DIY crafts. It's the ultimate spot for kids—and kids at heart—to burn off energy and win cool prizes.

Treasure Trail Adventure:

Friday, July 18: 6 - 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 19: 1 - 2 p.m. and 3 - 4 p.m.

Sunday, July 20: 1 - 2 p.m. and 3 - 4 p.m.

Embark on a journey with family or friends where teamwork and curiosity lead the way to hidden treasures.

Stories That Connect Us Giveaway:

Friday, July 18: 5 - 8 p.m.

Saturday, July 19: 12 - 5 p.m.

Sunday, July 20: 12 - 5 p.m.

A colouring draw celebrating creativity and the shared stories that bring us together in Richmond Hill. Enter for a chance to win a prize pack.

Rib Eating Contest:

Saturday, July 19: 4 - 5 p.m.

Roll up your sleeves and dig in at the Annual Richmond Hill Rib Eating Contest! Expect mouthwatering ribs, mountains of sauce, and a showdown of serious appetites. It’s messy, it’s wild, and the bragging rights are legendary—who's ready?

Registration opens one hour prior to each contest and closes once all spots are full.

   *Contest/activity times subject to change

Small Business Enterprise Centre 

The Summer Company program, funded by the Government of Ontario and administered through the Richmond Hill Small Business Enterprise Centre, helps students between the ages of 15 and 29 years old start and run their own summer business by providing funding, training, and mentorship.

Come and meet these young entrepreneurs Saturday, July 19 & Sunday, July 20 from 12-6 p.m. They will be located along the interlock walkway, north of the Agricultural Building #2.

The following is the list of businesses that are participating:

ANGO Competitive
Chilly Fruits
Dolled by Darya
Echo Eye Technologies
GoParty4U
IdealReel Marketing Solutions
Nap Rugs
Northshine Property Services
Pure Gems
The NorthWoodWorks
The Protein Pastry
Wendy Li Golf Academy

Food and Beverage Concessions

Food and Beverage Concessions

In addition to the delicious rib vendors, treat yourself and indulge in a variety of offerings such as festival-style delights, including corn on the cob, blooming onions, freshly squeezed lemonade, bubble tea and more. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available for purchase. 

  • Alabama's Freshly Squeezed
  • AthenSeoul - Souvlaki Fusion
  • Billy Bobs Bloomin Onions
  • Chocoberry
  • Chill Delights Ice Cream
  • Festival Food Inc
  • Happy Twist
  • Juicy Empanadas
  • Mister Softee
  • Mobile ICEE Canada
  • Mr. Kettle Corn
  • Ontario Corn Roasters
  • Super Smash Juice Inc.
  • Super Crunch Tanghulu
  • Soup Dumpling Express
  • Teamate ltd
  • Ti-Foods
  • Tiny Tom's Donuts
  • Tornado Fries
  • Tropic Love

King Henry's Arms Beer Garden

Enjoy an alcoholic beverage provided by King Henry's Arms, a long-time Richmond Hill establishment. A variety of craft beers and coolers will be available for purchase. 

logo of King Henry's Arms

Frequently Asked Questions 
Q: What is the cost of admission?

A: Admission to the event is free. Fees will apply for any vendor purchases and midway attractions. 

Q: Where can I park?

A: There are various public parking signs throughout the venue for parking. There are also parking attendants on-site to help direct traffic through the parking lots.

Q: Is there accessible parking?

A: Yes, accessible parking is available onsite in the Reserved Parking Lot.

Q: Can I ride my bicycle to the event?

A: You are encouraged to walk or bike! Limited bike racks are available near the entrance of the Sports Centre. 

Q: Does the event close if it rains?

A: The event will continue rain or shine. In case of inclement weather where safety is a concern, you will be asked to exit the park.

Q: Is there an ATM on-site?

A: Yes, there is an ATM located inside the amusement area.

Q: Can I bring my dog or other pets?

A: Only service animals that are trained to perform essentials tasks for their companions are welcome into festival grounds. Emotional support animals do not meet the criteria of a service animal and unfortunately are not permitted into the festival grounds due to the nature of this festival. Pets are welcome on the rest of the Richmond Green Park grounds. 

Q: Can I bring my water bottle to the event? 

A: Empty reusable water bottles or sealed bottles are permitted on site and can be filled at the Fill-it-Up Water Trailer. Please note that unsealed bottles will be emptied upon entering the event grounds. 

Q: Where are the festival entrances located? 

A: The two entrances/exits are located on the south pathway north of the Richmond Hill Soccer Club House and on the interlock walkway directly north of the Boynton House. 

Q: Are there vegetarian options available?

A: Yes. Vegetarian options include roasted corn and yams, blooming onions, french fries, twisted potatoes, deep fried offerings, soft serve ice cream, freshly squeezed juices and lemonade, slushies, popsicles, soda fountain drinks, cotton candy and funnel cakes. 

Thank you to our 2025 Partners:

Feature Partner

Rubicon Food Products Ltd.

Event Partners
 

Costco Logo    Canada Korean Black Belt     Renewals by AD   Richmond Hill Honda  Rockstar Music  Specsavers

To be a Partner with the City of Richmond Hill Events, visit our Partnerships and Advertising page for more information.

Stay up-to-date on Richmond Hill Festivals and Events

See what other events we have planned at RichmondHill.ca/EventServices

  

  festival and event logo      FEO Award

 

Have a great summer! 
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Richmond Hill Municipal Offices

225 East Beaver Creek Road,

Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3P4

905-771-8800

access@richmondhill.ca

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