Q: Where is Ribfest?
A: Riverside Park - 709 Woolwich St, Guelph, ON N1H 7G6
Q: How do I get to Ribfest?
A: Directions and parking details are available here:
https://www.ribfestguelph.com/directions-and-parking
- By Car: Parking is Limited near and within Riverside Park
- Note: Woolwich Street Lot off Marilyn Drive will be closed to the public and reserved for volunteers, staff and accessibility parking only.
- Public Transit: Buses run along Woolwich Street with stops directly outside Riverside Park, making it easy to access the event without a car.
- Bike Valet: Free bike valet service will be available, provided by the Guelph Coalition for Active Transportation (GCAT). Note: The bike valet will be in a new location this year — more details coming soon.
Q: Where do I enter?
A: There are two entrances:
- Main Entrance: Located on the southeast side, just north of the carousel.
- Second Entrance: Located on the northwest side, accessible via Marilyn Drive.
This entrance is best for those arriving from Woodlawn Road. (Note: The nearby gravel lot is not open to public parking.)
Q: Is it rain or shine?
A: YES. We will be serving up ribs, great food, and entertainment for the community whether it rains or shines. Make sure you dress accordingly. Bring some slickers if rain is in the forecast or sunscreen if its going to be sunny.
Q: Is there an admission or minimum donation?
A: YES, for attendees 13 years + a minimum $2 donation is collected at the entrance to help us make a big impact. Ribfest is a 100% volunteer-driven community fundraiser organized by the Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium. Over the past 27 years, your support has helped raise more than $1.3 million for some incredible charities. To view some of the organizations Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium please visit this link List-of-agencies-receiving-Community-Funding--2-.pdf
Q: What payment methods are available?
A: Rib and food vendors as well as the beer and drink ticket tent will offer a mix of cash and cashless options. ATMs will also be available on site.
Q: Is alcohol available?
A: YES, Ribfest is a licensed event selling beer, wines, and coolers. Please be prepared to present ID to verify your age. Please drink responsibly.
Q: Am I allowed to bring my own alcohol?
A: NO. This is not a BYOB event, and outside alcohol is not permitted within the event area.
While new Ontario regulations (2026) allow for BYOB events under certain conditions, a special permit is required to host one. Ribfest does not have that permit in place.
Q: Can I buy bottled water at the park?
A: NO, bottled water will not be available for sale. We encourage you to bring your own empty refillable water bottles as the Guelph Water Wagon will be the only source of water refills.
Q: Can I buy soft drinks at the event?
A: YES, there will be soft drinks available to purchase.
Q: Can I bring my pet?
A: NO. Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the Ribfest area of the park. Service animals are welcome but must be leashed at all times.
Q: What are the kid's area hours?
A: The kids entertainment area will operate on the same hours as the rest of the event. Please note some kid's activities will only be available from opening until early evening (approx. 6 pm).
Q: Is there a children’s story time Saturday morning?
A: Yes! The Guelph Guild of Storytellers will host story time from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM near the Enabling Gardens (before Ribfest opens).
https://natureguelph.ca/locations/riverside-park-guelph-enabling-gardens/
Q: Is there a car show this year?
A: YES, on Saturday and Sunday morning starting at 9am. No advance registration is required, only $10 entry fee per day, includes access to Ribfest.
Q: What are the rib prices this year?
A: Below is a sample menu. Prices may vary slightly from Ribber to Ribber. Also, sides are usually a combination of two items - beans, slaw, mac 'n cheese, potato salad etc. and vary depending on the Ribber.
Full Rack Dinner $31
Half Rack Dinner $18
Half Chicken Dinner $18
Ribs & Chicken $22
Pulled Pork on a Bun $14