One of the most anticipated and enjoyed summer events of the past decade in North Bay will shift venues to the waterfront this year.
After seven successful editions of RibFest, beginning in 2013 at the Voyager Inn, the Richardson family ownership group is passing the torch to Steve Bitonti and team at The Boat to operate the event. The past two RibFests were cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The details are still being ironed out but the move to the waterfront has been confirmed by The Boat's management through the event's Facebook page: "RibFest is back! Great food and a whole lot more! Save the date July 14 to 17."
See related: RibFest fires up North Bay
In some years, RibFest drew upwards of 10,000 people to the Voyager Inn. People lined up and paid for the beer and professionally grilled fare while the organizers took pride in running an accessible, family-friendly event with live entertainment, local vendors, and something for everyone. The event also raised tens of thousands of dollars for Community Living over the years.
See: An estimated 10,000 people had a rib-tickling good time at 6th Annual Voyageur RibFest
And: Jobs of the future: Steve Bitonti bets on himself to steer hospitality business to success
Bitonti tells BayToday that all the details about RibFest will be released soon but in the meantime, his team is looking for employees to work July 14–17. Interested applicants should contact [email protected].
