Canada’s biggest Ribfest ready to take over Burlington

The long weekend is upon this and in Burlington that only means one thing…ribs.

Yes, Canada’s Largest Ribfest returns with four days of food and entertainment starting Aug. 30 and running through Sept. 2.

As always, festival organizers try to turn it up a notch each year and this weekend is no different with more food and fun promised as the ribfest takes over Spencer Smith Park.

Presented by Rotary Burlington Lakeshore, the event has grown steadily since its inception in 1996 and this year attendance records are expected to be broken. And, organizers point out that the goal, as always, is to raise for local charities.

Since its inception close to $5 million has been raised for such charities as

Burlington Food Bank, Joseph Brant Hospital, The Carpenter Hospice, Canada Diabetes Association Summer Camp, CCAC Child Abuse Emergency Fund, Terry Fox, Food Banks Canada, Haloton Fresh Food Box, Community Living Burlington, Out of the Cold, The Lighthouse Homeless Shelter, Able Sail and many more.

This year there will be 16 vendors selling ribs. Here’s the lineup:

As well, there will be four days of entertainment with such artists as the Killin’ Time Band, Freedom Train, Dirty Pioneers and James Anthony.

There will be a $2 entry fee to enter the park for anyone over the age of 12. VIP passes will also be available that provide special privileges.

Hours for the ribfest are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday.