On June 7, 8, and 9 of 2024 we are excited to be bringing back all of the same great fun, food, beer, music, and excitement that comes along with this great event.
When it comes to food, Bowmanville Rotary Rockin’ Ribs and Brews is a culinary extravaganza that brings together top-notch professional Ribbers from both North and South of the border. These Ribbers don’t just serve food, they put on a show with their massive mobile cooking rigs and huge wood-fired BBQs, creating an experience that goes beyond just a meal. Year after year, there’s a fierce competition amongst the Ribbers for accolades such as Best Sauce, Best Ribs, Best Chicken, Best Pulled Pork, and the coveted Judge’s Favorite Trophy.But the food offerings at Ribfest don’t stop there. There’s a wide array of other delectable treats to try. From fresh cut fries to massive ‘Bloomin’ Onions’, crepes to gourmet coffee, and even craft root beer, our collection of food trucks and vendors offers something for everyone. We also have local stores joining us for the weekend, where you can indulge in a slice of pie, grab a jar of local honey, or savor some of the best soup in town. The food area at Ribs and Brews is an eclectic mix of choices, and it’s heartwarming to see families gathered around the tables under the big top tent, enjoying a meal together.Ribs and Brews is not just about food and drink, but also about celebrating the rich musical talent in our community. Over three consecutive days, we deliver live music performances that cover a variety of genres and feature local acts. From bluegrass in the morning to blues in the afternoon, and pure rock in the evening, there’s something for everyone’s musical taste. To accommodate the abundance of talent in our community, we have even added a second stage, the Craft Brew Stage, which offers a more intimate kitchen party atmosphere.Ribs and Brews has always been and will always be a family event. We also take pride in showcasing local athletes, with interactive sports displays from our hockey, football, soccer, and baseball teams. In short, Ribs and Brews offers a festive atmosphere with great food and drink, musical entertainment, and fun activities for kids, making it the perfect event for those seeking a small town experience with a touch of urban sophistication.
frequently asked questions
Free! There is no entry fee to Bowmanville Rockin’ Rotary Ribs and Brews.
However, at the gates we will be asking for donations. Donations are strictly at your discretion.
Friday 12pm – 11pm
Saturday 12pm – 11pm
Sunday 12pm – 8pm
Friday and Saturday gates will close to entry at 10:00 PM. On Sunday gates will close at 7:00PM
Bowmanville Rockin’ Rotary Ribs and Brews is one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Clarington. Every year, people from throughout southern Ontario and beyond flock to Bowmanville for three days of fun and great tasting ribs.
Ribs and Brews is a licensed event and alcohol can be purchased during the event. Ribs and Brews is also a family event, and we encourage everyone to enjoy themselves, be responsible with your alcohol consumption, and don’t drink and drive.
Absolutely YES!
Ribs and Brews is a Family Friendly event. We have entertainment for every age group. All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. However, note that the music in the evening will be targeted to adults.
No pets may enter the event.
Service animals, on the other hand, are not only permitted, they are welcomed.
Yes! 650 free parking spots are available on site.
Additional parking will also be available at the Baseline Community Centre
There will also be a shuttle bus running every 20 minutes stopping at convenient locations through town. A map will be posted on our site closer to the event.
A limited number of Handicap parking spaces are available on site. Permits must be displayed.
No. Bowmanville Rockin’ Rotary Ribs and Brews is a “cash only” event. However, there are ATM’s on-site for your convenience.
This feature was added to our event in 2015 with great success. The Craft Beer Village features more than 30 craft beers ciders and coolers from across Ontario. The Village also has a smaller stage featuring more intimate, acoustic atmosphere.
Some rib teams have beef ribs as well as pork ribs. Ribbers and other food vendors offer chicken, salads, coleslaw, baked beans, pizza, french fries, doughnuts, ice cream, roast corn, sweets & treats and more.
Yes. Some vendors offer salads, bloomin’ onions and corn-on-the-corn. Gluten free sauces available – ask the Ribber.
The short answer is no.
The Smoke-Free Ontario Act prohibits smoking on publicly owned sports fields, playgrounds as well as outdoor patios of eating establishments (amongst other places). Our event is held on the grounds of a sporting field /playground. As such, smoking will only be permitted in specially designated areas.
The success of the event is dependent on the efforts of the volunteers. There are hundreds of positions to be filled. Community Service credit is available. Please visit the Volunteer section by clicking here.
Ribs and Brews is organized by the Bowmanville Rotary Club. 100% of all money raised goes to support important local and international causes while holding a fun and safe event for all ages. 90% of the money raised goes directly to local causes such as respite care for families with special needs. The remaining 10% goes toward causes such as the eradication of Polio and providing clean drinking water to villages in the third world. To learn more about Bowmanville Rotary and Rotary International, go to http://www.bowmanvillerotaryclub.org/
Student volunteers who didn't get their forms signed this past weekend at Ribs & Brews, please email us at [email protected] ... See MoreSee Less
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We have some items collected in our Lost and Found. If one is yours, please message us here and we’ll arrange to get it back to you. ... See MoreSee Less
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Was there a kids Minecraft zip up sweater found? Thanks.
Ribs & Brews is over for another year and we have so many people to thank -- Our sponsors who make it possible for us to even hold the event... our volunteers, who do so many of the things that keep the show running smoothly... and most of all, you wonderful folks in our community who support us year after after year -- this time despite the wind and rain to truly make it a "storybook" year. You are all a part of service above self. Hope you had a great time and see you next year! ... See MoreSee Less
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Monkey Wrench Foo fans East of Gta we had a great time ,, thanks for having us
Red Astro had an awesome time, such a great night!
Thank you for all that you do and creating this incredible event. I have so many yyyyyeeeeaaarrrsssss upon years of amazing memories with my children since they were little (now 28&22) at our Ribfest! Countless times celebrating my sons bday there it has always fallen on his bday weekend and now he continues to go with his friends EVERY year for his bday still as an adult and I go with hubby and our friends… Truly blessed and grateful for all the memories ❤️🥰❤️
You always do an amazing job. Thank you everyone for having me this year. Looking forward to next year as well 😎🕷️🕸️💯
Great job from all involved 😉🤟🏻❤️
Thank you to all of the Rotarians and volunteers! Great community event and an honour to be part of it! Two For The Show
Please add us in for next year event Looking forward to joining the food vendors team!!
Jason Popovich. Next year.
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