Listen up BBQ lovers, this isn’t a drill. Our summer just got a whole lot hotter and a whole lot more flavourful because the Northern Heat Rib Series is back on with just the bang we needed. And it’s coming to 16 cities in Southern Ontario with its “mouth waterin’, finger lickin’, belly rubbin’ good BBQ.”

After the 2-year-long break, the festival is bringing back all our summer faves from May ‘til September. Expect a major festival vibe with fun games and activities, foot-tapping music, delightful eats and treats and thirst-quenching beer and bevies. And of course, tons and tons of ribs.

Northern Heat Rib Series - Racks of Ribs on the Flaming Grill
Photo via Northern Heat Rib Series

Although their famous ribs are the star of the show, other BBQ must-haves like chicken, pulled pork, beef ribs & brisket, and vegetarian options are making an appearance.

Now, when we say beer and bevvies, we don’t mean off-the-rack cans. We mean, a whole Beer Market with 25 different craft brews from some of the best breweries across Ontario plus our fave Budweiser classics, cocktails galore by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, wines from Pelee Island Winery, and lots of non-alcoholic options. Yes, there’s something for everyone in your squad!

The three-day-long fest will conclude in a very country-style BBQ competition that they call, Battle of the Ribs.

Imagine grooving to a crazy music mashup amidst aromas of grilled meats and sizzling flavours. Now, imagine digging into smoking hot, juicy BBQ ribs and downing them with a craft beer (or 7). Yes, we are about to live our best summer life.

If ribs and beer are your beat, the Northern Heat Rib Series is the Ribfest you just can’t afford to miss. So, head to their website and check out the full tour dates and locations. And don’t forget to get your stretchy pants ready.