Get ready, Burlington — the sweet smell of BBQ smoke is about to take over the waterfront. From August 29 to September 1, 2025, Canada’s Largest Ribfest returns to Spencer Smith Park for its 29th year, proudly organized by the Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore.

What started in 1996 as Ontario’s first-ever Ribfest has grown into one of the biggest and best community events in the country. And here’s the best part: every dollar raised goes straight to charity.

Event Hours

• Friday to Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

• Monday: 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  Entrance gates close nightly 30 minutes before the event ends.

Meet the Ribbers

Bring your appetite — you’ll need it. This year’s Ribfest will feature a legendary lineup of award-winning ribbers from across North America, including:

• Bibbs BBQ

• Billy Bones BBQ

• Bone Daddy’s BBQ

• Brickyard BBQ

• Camp 31 BBQ

• Fat Boys BBQ

• Gator BBQ

• Hawgs Gone Wild BBQ

• Memphis Blazin’ BBQ

• Mississippi Smokehouse

• Pistol Pete’s Smokehouse

• Silver Bullet BBQ

• Smokehouse Bandits

• Sticky Fingers

• Uncle Sam’s BBQ

• Big Texas BBQ

From smoky brisket to tangy pulled pork and ribs so tender they fall apart in your hands, these pitmasters are bringing the heat — and they’re all competing for bragging rights at Monday’s Rib Judging Ceremony.

2025 Live Music Lineup

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29

• 12:00 – 1:15: Kendra Gabrielle

• 1:45 – 3:00: Hawthorne

• 3:30 – 5:00: Rob Kirkham & Neon Rain

• 5:30 – 7:00: Pulse X

• 7:30 – 8:00: FourOneSix

• 8:00 – 9:00: The Kings

• 9:30 – 11:00: Neon Nostalgic

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30

• 11:30 – 1:00: TBA

• 1:30 – 3:00: Adam Ostrosser Band

• 3:30 – 5:00: The McFlys

• 5:30 – 7:00: Stone the Radio

• 7:30 – 9:00: Tom Barlow

• 9:30 – 11:00: Freedom Train

SUNDAY, AUGUST 31

• 11:30 – 1:00: Turbo Street Funk

• 1:30 – 3:00: Chris Chambers

• 3:30 – 5:00: Chris Caddell & Jesse O’Brien

• 5:30 – 7:00: DarkHorse

• 7:30 – 9:00: The Dirty Pioneers

• 9:30 – 11:00: ABBA Revisited

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

• 11:30 – 1:00: Bourbon & Co

• 1:30 – 3:00: Corey Lueck & Smoke Wagon Blues

• 3:15: Rib Judging Announcements

• 3:30 – 5:00: Group Therapy and the OCD Horns

• 5:30 – 7:00: The Killin’ Time Band

More Than Just Ribs

Ribfest is a full-on festival experience. Beyond the BBQ, enjoy craft vendors, refreshing drinks at the beer garden, activities for kids, and scenic lakefront views all weekend long. Whether you're a Burlington local or just visiting for the long weekend, this is a must-attend summer sendoff.

So, mark your calendars, gather your crew, and come hungry. The Original Ribfest is back — and it’s smokier, saucier, and more unforgettable than ever.

Follow @burlington365 for live updates, vendor features, music previews, and the best bites of Ribfest weekend. See you at the park!