A longtime Niagara Falls summer tradition is returning this month with a new group helping lead the way.
The Stamford Centre Volunteer Firemen’s Association has taken over organization of Niagara Falls Ribfest, helping continue the event after uncertainty surrounding its future in recent years. Organizer Mike Sporar says the group wanted to ensure the more than 20-year tradition remained part of the community calendar.
According to Sporar, the original Rotary organizers had struggled with declining membership and manpower in recent years, while last year’s event was organized by rib vendor Andrew Reinhardt in an effort to keep the festival alive. This year, Reinhardt approached the volunteer firemen’s association about taking over operations.
Sporar says organizing the event has involved a significant amount of planning in a relatively short amount of time, but the response from the community and volunteers has been positive.
This year’s Ribfest will feature familiar barbecue teams including Billy Bones and Camp 31, alongside other competitors taking part in the festival’s rib competition.
In addition to food vendors, the event will include live entertainment, giveaways, a free kids zone and community games throughout the weekend. Organizers say they want families to spend time enjoying the atmosphere at Firemen’s Park rather than simply stopping in for food.
Several local charities and nonprofit groups are also partnering with the event this year, including Project Share, No One Goes Hungry and the Fallsview Hose Brigade. Organizers say the partnerships will help community groups raise money while continuing the charitable focus that has long been associated with Ribfest.
Niagara Falls Ribfest runs May 22nd through the 24th at Firemen’s Park. Admission, entertainment and the kids zone are all free to attend.
(Written by: Matt Latour)