Owen Sound Ribfest

Smoke signals rise over Owen Sound’s Bayshore Community Centre when Ribfest returns for its 14th year on September 11 to 13, 2026.

Four of North America’s best rib teams set up shop with award-winning BBQ smoked ribs, tender pulled pork, juicy brisket, BBQ chicken, smoked sausage, and massive beef dino ribs that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous. Admission runs just $5, kids 10 and under free, and you’ll find free parking, live tribute bands all weekend, a kids zone with face painting, and a marketplace filled with local artisans.

The Bloomin’ Onion, poutine truck, roasted corn, funnel cakes, and Tiny Tom Donuts round out the food lineup, and you can wash it all down with cold Ontario craft beer in the licensed area.

Gates open Friday at 4 PM, Saturday at noon, and Sunday at noon, with the final day wrapping at 6 PM. Ribfest is pet-friendly, leashed, and a portion of admission supports Grey Bruce Hospice.

Owen Sound sits right on Georgian Bay’s harbour, making it easy to split your weekend between BBQ and waterfront exploration. Kelso Beach offers a sandy shoreline, free splash pad, and shallow swimming just a short drive from the fairgrounds.

Rent a kayak at The Launch and paddle the harbour, or hike to Inglis Falls Conservation Area where an 18-meter waterfall tumbles through forest trails. Harrison Park, adjacent to the festival grounds, features a heated outdoor pool, canoe rentals, and scenic boardwalks along the Sydenham River.

For dinner beyond ribs, Boot and Blade Restaurant, founded 1976, serves locally sourced comfort food including the famous Sasquatch Burger, while Mudtown Station Brewery, opened 2018, pours house-brewed craft beers inside a restored 1946 CPR train station on the east harbor waterfront.

Book a Georgian Bay cottage rental through Lake.com starting around $160 CAD per night, or reserve a campsite at nearby Harrison Park Campground for maximum convenience. Owen Sound’s compact harbour district makes it easy to walk between the festival, waterfront restaurants, and scenic lookout points.

If crowds get heavy on Saturday afternoon, take a break at nearby Jones Falls or explore the Bruce Trail section that runs through town. Sunday’s “Best Ribs” competition crowns the winner mid-afternoon, so stick around for the announcement before heading home.

This is one of Ontario’s Top 100 Festivals for good reason, blending small-city hospitality with serious BBQ and easy access to some of Georgian Bay’s most accessible shoreline.