Hungry? Ribfest taking over Cold Lake once again

Time to bring an appetite and perhaps a bib as well, as Ribfest Cold Lake is returning to the Cold Lake Energy Center.

This year, Lakeland Connect has taken over to organize a festival experience for the whole family for the next three days.

As part of the Western Canada Ribfest Tour, four mouthwatering rib vendors will keep your bellies full this weekend: Billy’s BBQ, Buckeye’s BBQ, Bone Daddy’s, and Blazin’ BBQ.

They offer everything from ribs, chicken, and sausage, to sides like beans, coleslaw, mac n’ cheese, and potato salad. The menu varies per vendor, and the sauce they use is unique to each truck.

For three days the vendors serve up delicious BBQ. At the end of the event, there are trophies awarded for Best Ribs, selected by a panel of judges comprised of local dignitaries, community members, and public figures.

But that’s not all.

There are sultry options to enjoy like Bloomin’ Onions and Roasted Southern Corn, or try sweet treats from Marvelous Minis and Da Scoop.

The City of Cold Lake was a major sponsor for this event, including helping out with the staging, which will showcase the free live music and entertainment for the weekend.

On Friday, enjoy DJ Elle Rose, Main Street Band (from Cold Lake), and Bonnyville’s own Clayton Bellamy.

The action continues on Saturday with Epic Entertainment and country singer Olivia Rose.

For free kids can enjoy the Kidz Zone, sponsored by the Municipal District of Bonnyville. There are three bouncy houses for kids to jump on throughout the days.

If you get thirsty, there is a beer gardens to taste some of the best local products. Journey North Cider, Cold Lake Brewing & Distilling for a Caesar, Ribstone Creek Lager, Back Country Whiskey, and Bachelor Blond Ale.

Teaming up with Community Futures Lakeland, local vendors are helping us shine a light on the Lakeland.

The Friday night market is from 4:00-9:00pm. Saturday is your best window to hit up vendors from 11:30am-6:00pm, and Sunday you’ll still have time from noon until 4:00pm.

This year’s Ribfest is shaping up to be a great time to eat, drink, and enjoy great music under the hot July sun.

Environment Canada is projecting highs of 24, 29, and 29 degrees for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with tons of sunshine.

It is set to be a busy weekend in Cold Lake. Cold Lake Treaty Days also begins today. Alberta Soccer Provincials Tier 4 Rural is here in the Lakeland, plus the 2023 Alberta Wake Tour at Kinosoo Beach all day on Saturday.

So bring an appetite, some sunscreen, and get ready to enjoy a fabulous weekend at Ribfest Cold Lake.