On June 12, 13, and 14 of 2026 we are excited to be bringing back all of the same great fun, food, beer, music, and excitement that comes along with this great event.

When it comes to food, Bowmanville Rotary Rockin’ Ribfest is a culinary extravaganza that brings together top-notch professional Ribbers from both North and South of the border. These Ribbers don’t just serve food, they put on a show with their massive mobile cooking rigs and huge wood-fired BBQs, creating an experience that goes beyond just a meal. Year after year, there’s a fierce competition amongst the Ribbers for accolades such as Best Sauce, Best Ribs, Best Chicken, Best Pulled Pork, and the coveted Judge’s Favorite Trophy.

But the food offerings at Ribfest don’t stop there. There’s a wide array of other delectable treats to try. From fresh cut fries to massive ‘Bloomin’ Onions’, crepes to gourmet coffee, and even craft root beer, our collection of food trucks and vendors offers something for everyone. We also have local stores joining us for the weekend, where you can indulge in a slice of pie, grab a jar of local honey, or savor some of the best soup in town. The food area at Ribfest is an eclectic mix of choices, and it’s heartwarming to see families gathered around the tables under the big top tent, enjoying a meal together.

Ribfest is not just about food and drink, but also about celebrating the rich musical talent in our community. Over three consecutive days, we deliver live music performances that cover a variety of genres and feature local acts. From bluegrass in the morning to blues in the afternoon, and pure rock in the evening, there’s something for everyone’s musical taste. To accommodate the abundance of talent in our community, we have even added a second stage, the Craft Brew Stage, which offers a more intimate kitchen party atmosphere.

Ribfest has always been and will always be a family event.  We also take pride in showcasing local athletes, with interactive sports displays from our hockey, football, soccer, and baseball teams. In short, Ribfest offers a festive atmosphere with great food and drink, musical entertainment, and fun activities for kids, making it the perfect event for those seeking a small town experience with a touch of urban sophistication.