The Kinsmen Club of Brantford is canceling this summer’s Ribfest.
“We have been dreading having to write this post,” said a message posted by the club on Monday. “It is with heavy hearts and overwhelming disappointment that Brantford Kinsmen Ribfest announces the cancellation of our August 2023 event.”
The club said a “lack of suitable location, as well as a substantial decrease in sponsorship and volunteers are all contributing factors in this difficult decision.”
The 12th annual Ribfest was to be held Aug. 11, 12 and 13 at the Brantford Civic Centre.
Work for the event was well underway. The club thanked the “businesses, organizations and sponsors who were preparing their Marketplace booths, food trucks and financial support” for the event.
The club said 2023 entertainment and Marketplace vendor and sponsorship applications will be considered for next year’s event.
“Thank you to our guests who look forward to and attend our family-friendly festival year after year,” said the club. “We appreciate your continued support. Our summer won’t be the same without you. We look forward to seeing you in 2024 at our new location.”
Ribfest draws thousands of visitors who enjoy barbecued ribs and chicken cooked by “North America’s best ribbers” competing for awards.
Last year’s three-day event was held at the civic centre, returning to the large-scale version after a two-year COVID-19 pandemic hiatus. A smaller version was held in 2020.
Ribfest is a fundraising event for the Kinsmen Club of Brantford with proceeds used to support sports teams, rehabilitation efforts for those with disabilities, Nova Vita Domestic Violence Prevention Services, senior and youth clubs and children’s camps. Across Canada, Kinsmen Clubs raise money to support Cystic Fibrosis research.
More to come.