Ribfest set for Aug. 26 at Firemen's Park

The City of Staunton has again teamed with the St. Louis BBQ Society to provide trained and formal judging practices in their annual Ribfest. The 2023 Ribfest has been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 26, at the Staunton Firemen’s Park.

One change to the rules and operations from last year regards “cooking site.” Each team must cook the distributed ribs at their assigned location. Two racks of ribs for judging will be provided by the city via Bill’s IGA as in the past.

If you have any plans to compete in this year’s Ribfest, be sure to get your registration in by Aug. 18.

To register, complete the application blank (available at the city clerk’s office). Be sure to submit the $75 entry fee along with your application and return to: City of Staunton, Attn. Ribfest, 101 W. Pearl Street, Staunton, IL 62088.

You may also register online with the SLBS for membership (www.stlouisbbqsociety.com).

The cash prizes for this year’s Ribfest are 1st $500; 2nd $300, 3rd $250, 4th $150, 5th - Free entry into 2024 competition.

The schedule of events: The day starts at 6 a.m. with set-up; 7:30 a.m. team meetings/ribs distributed; 2:30 p.m. judging begins; 4 p.m. awards announced.