The parking lot of Genesis Place Recreation Centre is going to be all kinds of saucy this weekend, as the long-awaited Western Canada Ribfest Tour makes a three-day stop in the city from Aug. 20 to 22.
According to event organizer Denis Nehpin, the first rendition of a Ribfest event in Airdrie was in the works last summer, but it was pushed back due to COVID-19. Airdrie will be a normal stop on the Western Canadian Ribfest Tour moving forward, he said, adding the tour currently stops in various places throughout Alberta, including Calgary, Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Fort McMurray.
Nehpin explained Ribfest is historically run in collaboration with a city’s rotary club and other community groups as a way to funnel the proceeds back into the community. This year, profits will be donated, but the partnership is expected to evolve into a long-standing community fundraising initiative.
“Our plan is to transition this event as a not-for-profit to run as a fundraiser,” he said.
Airdronians can expect Ribfest to become an annual event in the community, with most years looking significantly different than what patrons will experience this weekend, Nehpin said.
Attendees will have the choice of Buckeye BBQ, Camp 31, Billy’s BBQ and Pistol Pete’s to satisfy their rib cravings. Nehpin also said Calgary Mini Donuts and Papa Jack’s Bloomin’ Onion & Fries will be on site to round out the event.
Patrons will have the choice of four food trucks with ribs as their specialty. Pulled pork, brisket, coleslaw and baked beans will also be available.
“The difference is really in the sauce,” Nehpin said, adding he considers himself a rib connoisseur who will be directing visitors through the line to find the perfect truck suited to their tastes.
Ribfest will run from Aug. 20 to 22 from 11 a.m to 8 p.m. each day on the west side of the Genesis Place parking lot.
