Get ready for the smell of slow-smoked ribs, the sound of live music, and a weekend packed with family fun as the Cobourg Rotary Club hosts its 18th Annual Ribfest and Music Festival from August 14 to 16 at Victoria Park.
Now in its 18th year, the festival has become one of Northumberland County’s signature summer events, attracting thousands of visitors who come to sample championship barbecue, enjoy top-notch entertainment, and support Rotary’s many community projects.
Admission is free, although donations are always appreciated and help the Cobourg Rotary Club continue its work supporting local organizations and initiatives throughout the community.
Returning once again as the festival’s master of ceremonies is crowd favourite York Bell Smith, while Santos Auto Group joins the event as the 2026 Title Sponsor.
The heart of the festival is, of course, the barbecue. Five award-winning rib teams will compete for bragging rights while serving up their signature slow-cooked ribs and barbecue favourites. This year’s lineup includes Boss Hogg, Uncle Sam’s, Jack the Ribber, Camp 31, and Billy Bones.
Beyond the ribs, visitors will find a wide selection of festival foods from local and travelling vendors, including funnel cakes, fresh lemonade, gourmet burgers, wings, dirty sodas, strawberries, ice cream, and more.
Families will also want to visit the Kids Zone, sponsored by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in partnership with Spark Toy Store and All Creatures, offering activities designed to keep children entertained throughout the weekend.
The festival also features an impressive lineup of live entertainment across all three days.
Friday’s performances begin with Loco Locals at 4 p.m., followed by Vinyl Grooves at 6 p.m., before The Natural Women Show closes out the evening at 8 p.m.
Saturday’s schedule opens with Soul Shakers Union at noon, followed by Harley & the Howlers at 2 p.m., Little Peter & the Elegants at 4 p.m., The Jackson Fox Band at 6 p.m., and concludes with Hotel California – The Original Eagles Tribute Band taking the stage at 8 p.m.
Sunday wraps up the weekend with Marty and the Mojos performing at noon before The Bomb – 80’s Retro Live closes the festival beginning at 2 p.m.
Festival hours are Friday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from noon until 4 p.m.
Whether you’re coming for the ribs, the music, or simply to spend a summer weekend with family and friends along Cobourg’s waterfront, the 18th Annual Cobourg Rotary Ribfest and Music Festival promises something for everyone.
So bring your appetite, pull up a lawn chair, and get ready for three days of great food, outstanding live entertainment, and community spirit in Victoria Park.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
