August 28, 2025 | Community
A Sizzling End to Summer: Canada’s Largest Ribfest Returns to Burlington
As the days grow a little shorter and the first signs of fall appear, Canadians across the country look for ways to savour the last stretch of summer. In Burlington, the tradition is clear: Labour Day weekend means one thing, ribs, music, and memories at Canada’s Largest Ribfest. From Friday, August 29 through Monday, September 1, 2025, Burlington’s waterfront will come alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of this iconic event, drawing thousands of visitors to Spencer Smith Park for one last celebration of summer.
This isn’t just another food festival. Ribfest has become a true community staple, an event that families plan around, friends reunite at, and newcomers quickly fall in love with. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Ontario, it’s the perfect recipe for an unforgettable long weekend.
Why Labour Day Weekend Makes It Special
Labour Day is more than just a holiday, it’s the unofficial close of summer. It’s the last long weekend before back-to-school routines begin, the last chance to stretch out those warm evenings, and often the last opportunity for families to spend quality time together before schedules get busier. Burlington embraces that moment wholeheartedly, and Ribfest is the perfect excuse to celebrate.
Spencer Smith Park offers a beautiful lakeside setting for strolling, eating, and enjoying live entertainment. The park’s open green space and waterfront views make it an ideal spot for an end-of-summer festival, whether you’re there for a quick bite or an entire day of fun. Families often spread out picnic blankets, groups of friends gather by the beer garden, and kids run from the midway to the Kid Zone, all while the unmistakable smell of smoky ribs fills the air.
The Food: Ribs, Ribs, and More Ribs
At the heart of Ribfest is, of course, the food. The event brings together some of the best rib teams and pitmasters from across North America. Names like Camp 31, Memphis Blazin’, Fat Boys BBQ, and Bibbs BBQ are staples of the festival, serving up racks of ribs, pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and all the classic sides. Each team competes for bragging rights and awards like Best Ribs, Best Sauce, and People’s Choice, making it just as much about culinary pride as it is about feeding hungry festival-goers.
For many, part of the fun is sampling ribs from multiple vendors and debating which one reigns supreme. It’s a friendly competition that keeps people coming back year after year, determined to find their personal favourite. And for those who aren’t rib fanatics, the festival also offers plenty of alternative eats, from smoky chicken to vegetarian-friendly sides and sweet treats.
Entertainment: Music All Weekend
What pairs better with barbecue than great music? Ribfest offers live entertainment from morning until night across multiple days, featuring a mix of local talent and tribute acts that guarantee something for everyone.
This year’s lineup includes artists like Kendra Gabrielle and Neon Nostalgic on Friday, Tom Barlow and Freedom Train on Saturday, the ever-popular ABBA Revisited on Sunday, and Burlington favourites Group Therapy and the OCD Horns alongside The Killin’ Time Band on Monday. From rock and country to nostalgic throwbacks, the variety makes it easy to sit back with a plate of ribs and enjoy the soundtrack of summer.
Family Fun: More Than Just Food
While the ribs are the star of the show, Ribfest is designed to be a family-friendly event with plenty for kids to enjoy. The Kid Zone offers rides, face painting, games, and activities that keep younger visitors entertained for hours. Parents can relax knowing the festival has a safe, welcoming atmosphere that encourages families to spend the whole day.
Meanwhile, the marketplace of vendors gives adults something to explore, offering everything from local crafts and unique products to festival gear and keepsakes. And for those looking to unwind, the beer garden provides a refreshing break with a view of the lake.
For anyone who wants to make the experience extra special, the VIP section is also available, offering reserved seating, private beverage options, and shorter lines.
A Festival with Heart: Supporting the Community
One of the aspects that makes Canada’s Largest Ribfest unique is its purpose. The event is organized by the Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore, and while admission is free, donations are encouraged. Proceeds go back into the community, supporting local charities and initiatives throughout the year. That means every rack of ribs and every donation directly benefits Burlington and its residents. It’s a true example of how food and fun can come together for a greater good.
Making a Day of It
Ribfest isn’t just about grabbing lunch, it’s about making a day (or even a whole weekend) of it. Families often come early to enjoy the Kid Zone, grab a spot on the grass, and listen to live music while they eat. Groups of friends turn it into a night out, sampling ribs and sipping cold drinks under the festival lights. Visitors from nearby cities like Hamilton, Oakville, and Toronto make the trip to Burlington, drawn not only by the ribs but also by the vibrant waterfront and welcoming community atmosphere.
Labour Day weekend is also a great opportunity to explore Burlington beyond the festival. Visitors often pair their Ribfest trip with a walk along the pier, a stop at local shops on Brant Street, or an ice cream by the lake. For out-of-towners, it’s a chance to experience why Burlington is consistently ranked one of the best places to live in Canada.
The Perfect End to Summer
Canada’s Largest Ribfest has earned its reputation not only for incredible food but also for the way it brings people together. It’s the kind of event where you see old friends, meet new ones, and make memories that carry you into the fall. For families, it’s a last hurrah before school starts again; for couples, it’s a fun date night with great music; for groups of friends, it’s a reason to gather and enjoy the long weekend.
As Labour Day marks the close of summer, there’s no better way to celebrate than with saucy ribs, great music, and the unbeatable setting of Spencer Smith Park. Whether you’re a lifelong Burlington resident or visiting for the first time, Ribfest is an experience that captures the best of community living.
So gather your family, rally your friends, and head to the lake this Labour Day weekend. Canada’s Largest Ribfest is waiting, with food, fun, and festivities that promise to make your last long weekend of summer one to remember.
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