Toronto On Demand presents a fantastic roundup of summer ribfests that are sure to satisfy any BBQ lover’s craving. The summer months in and around Toronto offer a series of mouthwatering events where visitors can indulge in smoky, tender ribs and other delicious BBQ fare while enjoying live music, cold drinks, and plenty of family-friendly fun.
From the bustling streets of downtown to the vibrant suburban communities, Toronto’s summer ribfests bring together some of the best ribbers from across the country and beyond. These annual festivals, including the Downtown Toronto Ribfest and the Hamilton Ribfest, feature award-winning ribbers serving up a variety of BBQ delights, including ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken. Complementing the smoky flavours are delicious sides like cornbread, coleslaw, fries, and funnel cakes.
Not just about great food, these ribfests offer a vibrant atmosphere with live music performances across various genres. Whether you’re into blues, rock, or classic hits, you’ll find a soundtrack that enhances the festive environment. For those looking to relax, the beer garden offers a perfect spot to sip on a cold beverage while enjoying the entertainment.
Most ribfests also cater to families with kid-friendly activities, ensuring everyone has a good time. Whether you’re in the mood for food, fun, or both, these ribfests provide the ultimate summer experience.
2025 Southern Ontario Summer Ribfests
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May 16 – 19, 2025
VAUGHAN RIBFEST
80 Interchange Way, Concord
www.simpletix.com/e/vaughan-ribfest-may-16-19-2025-tickets-195541
The 2nd Annual Vaughan Ribfest will take place at the outdoor event grounds at Assembly Park Vaughan convenient for all surrounding communities. Produced by Ontario Festival Group, they are bringing 5 of North America’s Best Rib Teams coming from Daytona Beach, Florida, Brewton, Alabama, Castleberry, Alabama, Fort Erie, Ontario and London, Ontario. These “Pitmasters” are ready to serve you and your friends Award-Winning Mouth-Watering BBQ Smoked Ribs. There will be a variety of festival foods like mini-donuts, roasted corn, poutines, funnel cakes and of course to wash it all down nice cold beer.
May 16 - 19, 2025
Binbrook Ribfest
Binbrook Fairgrounds 2600 Regional Rd 56, Binbrook
The Binbrook Rib & Beer Fest is scheduled for May 16–19, 2025, at the Binbrook Fairgrounds, 2600 Regional Rd 56, Hamilton. Attendees can enjoy a variety of BBQ dishes, including pork ribs, beef ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, alongside sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and desserts such as funnel cakes and ice cream. Vegetarian options are also available. The festival features live music throughout the weekend, backyard BBQ games, and a Kid Zone for children. Admission is $2 per person, with free entry for kids under 5.
Event hours are: Friday (4 PM – 11 PM), Saturday (12 PM – 11 PM), Sunday (12 PM – 11 PM), and Monday (12 PM – 7 PM).
May 23 - 25, 2025
Windsor Ribfest
Riverfront Festival Plaza 1 Festival Plaza, Windsor
windsorite.ca/festivals/windsor-rib-fest
The Windsor Rib & Beer Fest is scheduled for May 23–25, 2025, at the Riverfront Festival Plaza, 1 Festival Plaza, Windsor, Ontario, N9A 7H7. Attendees can savour a variety of BBQ dishes, including pork ribs, beef ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, alongside sides like coleslaw, cornbread, funnel cakes, blooming onions, ice cream, poutine, and deep-fried treats. Vegetarian options are also available. The festival features live music throughout the weekend and backyard BBQ games. Admission is $2 per person, with free entry for kids under 5.
Event hours are: Friday (4 PM – 11 PM), Saturday (12 PM – 11 PM), and Sunday (12 PM – 7 PM).
May 30 - June 1, 2025
Newmarket Ribfest
Upper Canada Mall 17600 Yonge St., Newmarket
bit.ly/newmarket-ribfest-2025
Newmarket Ribfest 2025 is set to bring a weekend of mouthwatering BBQ, live music, and family fun! This annual festival features award-winning ribbers serving up juicy ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, alongside classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and deep-fried treats. Enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, and activities for all ages. Admission is usually free or low-cost, making it a must-visit summer event for BBQ lovers in the Newmarket area!
June 6 – 8, 2025
ALLISTON RIBFEST
PPG, 130 Church Street S, Alliston, On
www.facebook.com/orilliaribandcraftbeerfest
Alliston Ribfest 2025 is back from Friday, June 6 to Sunday, June 8, 2025, held at PPG Park. Produced by Ontario Festival Group, they are bringing 4 of North America’s Best Rib Teams coming from Florida, Alabama, BC and Ontario. These “Pitmasters” are ready to serve you and your friends Award-Winning Mouth-Watering BBQ Smoked Ribs.
June 6 - 8, 2025
Thornhill Ribfest
Promenade Mall 1 Promenade Cr., Thornhill
https://bit.ly/thornhill-ribfest-2025
Thornhill Ribfest 2025 promises a weekend filled with delicious BBQ, live music, and fun for the whole family! Held at a local venue, the festival showcases award-winning ribbers serving up smoky ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, paired with classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw. Enjoy live entertainment, a beer garden, and kid-friendly activities. With a lively atmosphere and mouthwatering flavours, Thornhill Ribfest is a must-visit summer event for BBQ lovers in the community. Don't miss out!
June 13- 15, 2025
TORONTO BEACHES RIB AND BEER FESTIVAL
Woodbine Park, 1675 Lakeshore Boulevard East
northernheatribseries.ca
Savour the best BBQ ribs at the Toronto Beaches leg of the Northern Heat Rib Series! Indulge in perfectly cooked ribs from the best BBQ Ribbers around, offering a flavour-packed adventure unlike any other. Enjoy a delicious journey through the world of BBQ, filled with finger-licking fun!
June 13 - 15, 2025
Uxbridge Ribfest 2025
Elgin Park, 180 Main St. S., Uxbridge
ribfestx.com/event/uxbridge-ribfest-2025
Uxbridge Ribfest 2025 is back and will take place Father’s Day Weekend on Friday, June 13 to Sunday, June 15, 2025 held at Elgin Park. Uxbridge Ribfest 2025 is an annual summer event celebrating great food, live entertainment, and community spirit. Featuring top rib vendors, delicious BBQ, and local craft beers, this family-friendly festival offers fun for all ages. Enjoy live music, games, and attractions while savouring some of the best ribs around!
June 27 - 29, 2025
Brampton Ribfest
Sheridan College (Davis Campus) 7899 McLaughlin RD., Brampton
bit.ly/4brInSU
Brampton Ribfest 2025 is a sizzling celebration of BBQ, beer, and live entertainment! This family-friendly event brings award-winning ribbers to serve up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, alongside classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and fun activities for all ages. Hosted at a popular Brampton venue, the festival creates a lively atmosphere perfect for food lovers. Don’t miss this exciting summer event filled with smoky flavours and great vibes!
June 28 - July 1, 2025
TORONTO RIBFEST 2025
Centennial Park, Toronto, ON
torontoribfest.com
Ribfest which was started in 1999 is known as a familial cultural event that preserves its tradition of offering quality entertainment and a social experience for the whole family. The annual event is a great celebration in addition to the Canadian Day Weekend celebrations in Toronto.
July 4 - 6, 2025
Markham Ribfest 2025
Downtown Markham
ribfestx.com/event/markham-ribfest-2025
Markham Ribfest 2025 is a mouthwatering annual celebration of BBQ, featuring top rib vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy tender ribs, pulled pork, and tasty sides while being entertained by local bands. This fun-filled festival brings together great food, music, and community spirit for an unforgettable experience.
July 4 – 6, 2025
CHATHAM RIBFEST 2025
Tecumseh Park, Stanley St, Chatham
www.chathamribfest.ca
Returning to Tecumseh Park, Chatham-Kent is the Original and Official, Chatham Ribfest! FREE TO ATTEND! We plan to bring back the fun in a BIG way! More saucier, more Craft beer options, Art in the Park, bigger production, and much more! This will be Chatham-Kent’s biggest party in 2025! With NEW and familiar ribbers on-site to serve you delicious finger-licking, lip-smacking, savoury and sweet ribs, you DON’T want to miss this awesome event!
July 4 - 6, 2025
Caledonia Ribfest
Caledonia Fairgrounds 151 Caithness St. E., Caledonia
Caledonia Ribfest 2025 is set to be a feast of smoky flavours, live entertainment, and family fun! Featuring award-winning ribbers, the festival offers mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, paired with delicious sides like coleslaw and cornbread. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and exciting activities for all ages. Held in a lively outdoor setting, this community event is a must-visit for BBQ lovers. Bring your appetite and enjoy a weekend of great food and fun in Caledonia!
July 2025
WHITBY RIBFEST
203-269 Victoria St W, Whitby
whitbyribfest.com
The Annual Whitby Ribfest welcomes over 50,000 guests who enjoy a great lineup of awesome entertainment, savour the best ribs, laugh while taking advantage of a full midway experience, shop at the many marketplace vendors, and welcome a cold beverage on a hot summer weekend! For those who have joined us in the past.
July 11 - 13, 2025
Downtown Toronto Ribfest
Sankofa Square 1 Dundas St. E., Toronto
www.sankofasquare.ca/calendar/downtown-toronto-ribfest
Downtown Toronto Ribfest 2025 is a must-visit summer event featuring award-winning ribbers serving up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken. Set against the vibrant city backdrop, this festival offers delicious BBQ, live music, a beer garden, and family-friendly activities. Enjoy classic sides like cornbread, coleslaw, and deep-fried treats while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Whether you're a BBQ lover or just looking for a fun weekend outing, Downtown Toronto Ribfest is the perfect place to indulge and celebrate!
July 11 – 13, 2025
Mississauga Rotary Ribfest
Erin Mills Town Centre North Parking Lot
ribfestmississauga.com
Prepare your taste buds for a mouth-watering experience as Mississauga Rotary Ribfest brings you six incredible “Ribbers: who will tantalize your senses with their mouth-watering pork and beef ribs, juicy chicken, delectable sausages, and more.
July 11 - 13, 2025
Innisfil Ribfest 2025
Sunset Speedway, 6918 Yonge St., Innisfil
ribfestx.com/event/innisfil-ribfest-2025
Innisfil Ribfest 2025 is a flavorful celebration of BBQ, featuring top rib teams and delicious food vendors. Enjoy mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and other grilled treats while listening to live music and participating in family-friendly activities. This annual event offers a fun, vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy!
July 18 – 20, 2025
KITCHENER RIBFEST & CRAFT BEER SHOW
Victoria Park, Downtown Kitchener
kitchenerribandbeerfest.com
Celebrate the BEST summer has to offer! Enjoy mouth-watering barbequed ribs and chicken, an incredible selection of Ontario craft-brewed beer, ciders and cocktails, plus live entertainment and a Kids Fun Zone – all in the open atmosphere of Victoria Park.
July 18 – 20, 2025
16th ORANGEVILLE ROTARY RIBFEST
Alder Street Recreation Centre, 275 Alder St, Orangeville
orangevilleribfest.com
Savour the ultimate BBQ experience at the Orangeville Ribfest! This family-friendly event brings mouthwatering ribs, delicious sides, and live entertainment to Rotary Park. Featuring top rib teams, there’s plenty to satisfy every taste bud. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and fun activities for kids, making it the perfect outing for all ages. Whether you’re a BBQ lover or looking for a fun day out, this summer tradition is not to be missed!
FRIDAY JULY 18, 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
SATURDAY JULY 19, 11:00 am – 10:00 pm
SUNDAY JULY 20, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm
July 18 - 20, 2025
Stoney Creek Ribfest
Eastgate Square Mall 75 Centennial Pkwy. N., Hamilton
Stoney Creek Ribfest 2025 is set to be a delicious weekend filled with smoky BBQ, live entertainment, and family fun! This popular festival brings award-winning ribbers serving up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, paired with classic sides like cornbread and coleslaw. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and fun activities for all ages. With a lively atmosphere and unbeatable flavours, Stoney Creek Ribfest is a must-visit summer event for BBQ lovers and festival-goers alike. Don't miss out!
July 25 – 27, 2025
Barrie Ribfest 2025
Georgian Mall, 509 Bayfield Street, Barrie
ribfestx.com/event/barrie-ribfest-2025
The Barrie Ribfest 2025 is scheduled from Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Georgian Mall in Barrie. Organized by the Ontario Festival Group, the event will feature four top rib teams from Florida, Alabama, British Columbia, and Ontario, serving award-winning BBQ ribs. Attendees can also enjoy festival foods like corn dogs, roasted corn, poutines, funnel cakes, and cold beer. The festival includes activities such as a Kids Zone, face painting, a marketplace, artisans, and live music throughout the weekend. Admission is $5, with free entry for children 10 and under. Proceeds support the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and Football Ontario.
July 25 - 27, 2025
Milton Ribfest
Community Sports Park 805 Santa Maria Blvd., Milton
July 31 – August 4, 2025
LONDON RIBFEST & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL
Victoria Park, 580 Clarence St, London
canadasbiggestparty.com/london-ribfest
London Rib Festival is highlighted with various activities like musical performances of 75 bands, more than 100 food booths with delightful foods, a beer garden with high-quality beer, and also big rides available in this event.
August 1 - 3, 2025
Waterloo Ribfest
RIM Park 2001 University Ave. E., Waterloo
northernheatribseries.ca/event/waterloo-ribfest
Waterloo Ribfest 2025 is an exciting celebration of BBQ, music, and community fun! This popular festival features award-winning ribbers serving up smoky, tender ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, along with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and fries. Enjoy live music performances, a beer garden, and activities for all ages. With its lively atmosphere and mouthwatering food, Waterloo Ribfest is a must-visit summer event for BBQ enthusiasts and families looking for a fun weekend outing!
August 8 – 10, 2025
BRANTFORD RIBFEST
Brantford & District Civic Centre, 79 Market St. South
brantfordribfest.com
Brantford Ribfest is three days of great food, live music and family fun brought to you by the Brantford Kinsmen Club. Five of North America’s best Ribbers will take BRANTFORD during the weekend, along with vendors, children’s entertainment, a beer tent and live entertainment on the main stage. Brantford will come alive with the smell of BBQ’ed ribs, fantastic food vendors, and a family entertainment zone. The Brantford Ribfest brings the excitement of family-oriented fun for all ages and the thrill of BBQ competition together for three days of entertainment and amazing food. North America’s greatest rib teams are coming to Brantford to compete for top awards including Best Ribs, Best Chicken, Best Sauce, Best Pig Rig and People’s Choice.
August 8 – 10, 2025
BROCKVILLE RIBFEST
Hardy Park, Home Street
biggerevents.ca/brockville-ribfest.php
As Canada’s leading child and youth mentoring charity, Big Brothers Big Sisters facilitates life-changing relationships that inspire and empower children and youth to reach their potential, both as individuals and citizens. By participating in Brockville Ribfest, you are helping us make a positive difference in the lives of our community’s youth. Ribbers provide mouth-watering ribs, chicken, and other delights throughout Ribfest. Brockville Ribfest is proud to provide a variety of non-food vendors in Vendor Village.
August 8 – 10, 2025
CAMBRIDGE RIBFEST
Riverside Park, Cambridge
cambridgeribfest.com
With an enhanced experience in support of Rotary Cambridge Sunrise, you’ll enjoy the same great Ribfest PLUS, a Craft Beer Show! Celebrate the BEST summer has to offer! Enjoy mouth-watering barbequed ribs and chicken, an incredible selection of Ontario craft-brewed beer, plus live entertainment and a Kids Fun Zone – all in the atmosphere of Riverside Park. Bring your friends, family and co-workers and savour the flavour.
August 8 - 10, 2025
Hamilton Ribfest
CF Lime Ridge Mall 999 Upper Wentworth St., Hamilton
northernheatribseries.ca/event/hamilton-ribfest
Hamilton Ribfest 2025 is an exciting weekend of great food, live entertainment, and family fun! Held annually in Hamilton, this festival features award-winning ribbers serving up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and chicken, accompanied by classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, and fries. Attendees can enjoy live music performances, a beer garden, and activities for all ages. With a lively atmosphere and delicious BBQ, Hamilton Ribfest is the perfect summer event for food lovers and festival-goers alike!
August 15 – 17, 2025
OSHAWA ROTARY RIBFEST
Lakeview Park, Oshawa
www.oshawaribfest.com
Oshawa Ribfest will be featuring 10 of the best U.S. And Canadian “Ribbers” plus a wide variety of other food vendors, sponsors, and exhibitors offering other goods and services for sale.
August 22 – 24, 2025
RIBS, RHYTHM & ROTARY – GUELPH
Riverside Park,709 Woolwich St, Guelph
ribfestguelph.com
The Professional Rib Teams Cook-Off is hands down, lip-smacking excitement. Local dignitaries will be judging the finest sauces and ribs from the professional ribbers, who are all competing for trophies in this final stop on the provincial Ribfest tour. The net proceeds from Ribfest Guelph 2025go back into the local community as well as a few international projects. Just as important as the funds we raise is the incredible community engagement Ribfest brings to Guelph.
Friday, August 22: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Saturday, August 23: 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM Special Storey Telling event
Saturday, August 23: 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM Rest of Ribfest
Sunday, August 24: 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
August 22 - 24, 2025
Orillia Ribfest
Tudhope Park 450 Atherley Rd., Orillia
www.facebook.com/orilliaribandcraftbeerfest
FREE of charge, featuring some of the best Rib Teams in Canada, along with food vendors, crafts booths, music/entertainment, 19+ area, and Kid Zone
August 22 – 24, 2025
AURORA’S RIBFEST
Machell Park
www.aurora.ca/en/recreation-arts-and-culture/ribfest.aspx
Mark your calendars because the tastiest event of the year will be taking place at Machell Park, as the rib teams get fired up starting on Friday, August 22. Not only will there be the tastiest ribs but also roasted yams, roasted corn on the cob, beavertails and many other dishes for every appetite.
Machell Park will be fenced with additional procedures for the safety of the attendees, performers, food vendors, volunteers and staff.
Free Admission, No Tickets or Registration
August 29 – September 1, 2025
CANADA’S LARGEST RIBFEST
Burlington’s Spencer Smith Park
canadaslargestribfest.com
Canada’s Largest Ribfest is proudly organized by Rotary Burlington Lakeshore. This is our largest and most successful community event and has been around since we planned Ontario’s first Ribfest in 1996. Since that day, all proceeds collected have gone to charity.
Friday to Sunday 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, Monday 11:00 to 7:00 pm
August 29 - 31, 2025
Georgetown Ribfest
Trafalgar Sports Park 11494 Trafalgar Rd., Georgetown
www.haltonontario.ca/events/georgetown-ribfest
Georgetown Ribfest 2025 is a delicious, fun-filled event for all ages! Held in the heart of Georgetown, this popular festival features award-winning ribbers offering juicy ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken, along with classic sides like cornbread, coleslaw, and deep-fried treats. Enjoy live music, a beer garden, and exciting activities for the whole family. With a lively atmosphere and mouthwatering BBQ, Georgetown Ribfest is a must-attend summer event for food lovers and festival-goers in the community!
September 5 – 7, 2025
KINGSTON RIBFEST AND CRAFT BEER SHOW
Kingston Memorial Centre, 303 York St., Kingston
www.kingstonribandbeerfest.com
Yes, it’s about enjoying ribs and craft beer, but anyone who’s been part of our event knows it’s more than that. Charities, vendors, artists, staff etc., there are many people and businesses impacted by the cancellation or postponement of events.
Friday 4 – 9 pm
Saturday noon-9 pm
Sunday noon-6 pm
September 12 - 14, 2025
Owen Sound Ribfest 2025
Bayshore Community Centre, 1900 3rd Ave. E., Owen Sound
ribfestx.com/event/owen-sound-ribfest-2025
Owen Sound Ribfest 2025 is a delicious celebration of BBQ, bringing together top rib vendors, local food trucks, and live entertainment. Enjoy tender, smoky ribs, pulled pork, and tasty sides, all while soaking in the festive atmosphere with live music and family-friendly activities. A must-attend summer event for all!
September 19 – 21, 2025
4th Annual Etobicoke Ribfest 2025
Colonel Samuel Smith Park, 3145 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke
ribfestx.com/event/etobicoke-lakeshore-ribfest-2025
Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Etobicoke Ribfest, happening September 19-21, 2025, at the scenic Colonel Samuel Smith Park in Etobicoke. Enjoy a weekend filled with award-winning ribs, pulled pork, smoked brisket, and BBQ chicken from North America’s top rib teams. Pair your feast with classic festival treats, cold beer, and live entertainment. Nestled along Lake Ontario, this family-friendly event combines stunning views, delicious food, and great vibes for an unforgettable experience.
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Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, Toronto’s summer ribfests are the perfect way to enjoy the warm weather and indulge in some of the best BBQ around. So grab your friends, bring the whole family, and don’t miss out on these amazing culinary celebrations happening throughout the summer.
