Weekend Destination: St. Catharines Ribfest Is Four Days of Ribs and Live Music

Look, I know this column is supposed to stay in Burlington's backyard, but sometimes the backyard next door is worth the drive, and the 2026 St. Catharines Rotary Ribfest is exactly that kind of exception.

It's on right now through Monday at Montebello Park, 64 Ontario Street in St. Catharines — Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1 from noon to 11pm, Sunday, August 2 from noon to 10pm, and Monday, August 3 from noon to 7pm. Entry is free, donations appreciated.

Here's the pitch, straight from the source: this is a four-day, family-friendly event where the funds raised go straight to Niagara charities. And despite the name, it's not a one-note affair — organizers are explicit that there's more than just ribs on offer, including the iconic blooming onion, a kid play zone, live music, and local vendors, with a new setup this year.

The Ribbers are firing up the grills in Montebello Park all weekend, and the entertainment lineup is stacked enough to plan your visit around:

Friday, July 31 — Figure Four (5:00–7:30pm), Jonesy (8:00–11:00pm)

Saturday, August 1 — Back in the Daze (2:00–4:30pm), Broken Cadence (5:00–7:30pm), The Lost Boys (8:00–11:00pm)

Sunday, August 2 — Soul Jam (1:00–3:30pm), Caverners (4:00–6:30pm), Country Junkies (7:00–10:00pm)

Monday, August 3 — Marty Allen Band (1:00–3:00pm), LMT Connection (3:30–6:00pm)

Alcohol sales are available in the park, with proceeds supporting the Rotary Club of St. Catharines' charitable fundraising — but heads up, outside alcohol isn't permitted, so don't plan on smuggling in a cooler. There's also a Cash for Community 50/50 fundraiser running if you're feeling lucky on top of full.

This isn't a new operation, either — the event notes that over 25 years, the St. Catharines Rotary Ribfest has raised $1.9 million for local causes. That's the kind of track record that makes eating a full rack for charity feel less like an indulgence and more like a civic duty.

If your weekend plans are still open, this one's got food, music, and a cause behind it. Sometimes the best food story isn't in your own city — it's a short trip away, and worth every minute of the drive.

Details sourced from the official St. Catharines Ribfest website. Confirm hours and lineup directly with organizers before heading out.