Fresh aromas of barbecue are filling the air along Barrie’s waterfront as the annual Ribfest settles in this weekend. Promising award-winning pitmasters from across the continent, Ribfest will feature slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, BBQ chicken and ribs. The festival is celebrating its 20th annual event set against the backdrop of Kempenfelt Bay. The event kicked off Friday and continues all weekend long at Heritage Park. Saturday will hold a Youth Battle of the Bands from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., followed by a Youth and Adult Gelato Eating Contest at 3:30 p.m. and a 20th anniversary welcoming ceremony at 6:30 p.m. Live tribute bands will provide musical entertainment throughout the day. The live music continues on Sunday with a ribs competition at 2:30 p.m. Closing ceremonies and awards will wrap things up at 5:30 p.m. General admission is $5 and kids 10 and under are free. A portion of the festival proceeds will go to Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre.
