Naperville Ribfest - Is it any good?

I've never been to Naperville Ribfest. I was just wondering what folks' opinions were. Is it worth the trip from the city?

I think Rib Fest is fantastic and a lot more fun than the Taste. You'll get some great BBQ (3-rib tasting portions available) and a lot of other fun festival food. It will be very crowded during the peak weekend times, of course. I'd recommend going with a small group, arrving early, staking out a blanket spot on the lawn, and enjoying the day.

I go to the ribfest at least once every year for maybe 15 years. We buy a few different slabs and share. While the quality of ribs will vary wildly (yes, Famous Daves is still there), you can get some decent barbecue. Best to go early, unless you are specifically going for the music, in which case prepare for a crowd.

On the other hand, beyond music, food and a small midway, there is not much to do once you are there. But if you do the ribs and then go into downtown N'ville, park the car and take a walk along the riverwalk (which now extends at least a couple of miles in either direction from downtown N'ville), it can be a very pleasant outing.

If you want other N'ville activities while out here, just ask.

I cannot agree with Dickson more. Ribfest is a fantastic opportunity to taste ribs from all over the country.

For the first time in its 33-year history, Ribfest has been canceled due to health safety concerns amid the coronavirus pandemic, organizers announced Sunday night.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/ ... story.html

After being canceled the last two years it was to be held in Romeoville, plans are in the works to bring the event to the DuPage County Fairgrounds June 17-20, said Jim McGuire, executive manager for the DuPage County Fair Association.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/ ... story.html

The Exchange Club of Naperville will move its 33rd annual Ribfest to the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds over the Father’s Day holiday weekend June 17-20.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/ ... story.html

Dave148 wrote:

The Exchange Club of Naperville will move its 33rd annual Ribfest to the DuPage Event Center and Fairgrounds over the Father’s Day holiday weekend June 17-20.

https://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/ ... story.html

The fairgrounds is probably a better place for it anyway. The old location didn’t have that much parking around it so you usually had to use a shuttle bus to get there. The fairgrounds should have ample parking.