THUNDER BAY -- The alluring aroma of ribs will once again fill the streets of Thunder Bay in late August.
A press conference for Ribfest was held outside Gateway Casino on Thursday to announce this year’s sponsors and features.
John Trevisanutto co-chair of Ribfest is once again looking forward to the event, which will be held from August 25-27.
“It’s been very popular,” Trevisanutto said. “It’s one of Thunder Bay’s biggest events, if not the biggest.”
Trevisanutto estimates that the event will draw a similar crowd of the approximately 35,000 people that attended last year.
“I think it highlights the Waterfront District and all that it has to offer. It’s a time when people can get out and enjoy entertainment and activities.”
As far as ribs go, the lineup will mostly consist of the same ribbers as last year, but there a number of new events locals can look forward to.
A kub car race, enhanced play area, and a guest appearance from Rachel DeBarros from the TV Series, All Girls Garage, will all take place during the weekend.
The Red River Rumble Car Show, which is a returning feature, will stretch into Cumberland Street and free up room for the various cars.
“The kids will actually have a block of wood, and they learn how to carve it, decorate it, and race them,” said Gladys Berringer in regards to the new kub car race.
Berringer is the executive director of Our Kids Count, and her organization will be in charge of coordinating the event for the fifth time.
In exchange for the help, all Ribfest proceeds will go towards the community development program.
“We totally rely on this event to help support the programs we need,” said Berringer. “We’re averaging anywhere from $60,000 to $70,000 from RibFest.
