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Amherstburg Ribfest returns on new Ramsay St. home

Writer's picture: Ron GiofuRon Giofu

Updated: Jul 9, 2024

Participants fill the streets for RibFest 2024.

The Amherstburg Ribfest made its return on the weekend with a new location and new sponsor.This year's Ribfest was located on Ramsay St., between Murray St. and Richmond St., with Ribs Royale, Dinosaur Smokehouse, Texas Jacks and Bubba Lou's being the four ribbers. Other food vendors also lined the street with entertainment and seating area provided in an alleyway just off the street and in and around Hotel STRY.


It began Friday morning and continued until Sunday evening.


Dan Gemus, whose Dan Gemus Real Estate Team was the lead sponsor this year, said it was “an incredible turnout” of people who came through the Ribfest.

“It's much greater than I expected,” said Gemus.


Formerly held at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and later at the Libro Centre, Gemus said he originally thought about presenting at the latter location. After considering it, he said it was more economical and simpler to have it downtown and without a beer tent and additional fencing.


“The comments are great,” he said. “People love the footprint and love downtown Amherstburg.”


Increased accessibility was another comment Gemus said he heard, as having the event on paved surfaces allowed for walkers and wheelchairs to be used easier. People also liked the fact they could visit other businesses after attending Ribfest, he added.


“People are excited to have it back,” said Gemus.


Gemus added their goal is to have the Amherstburg Ribfest return in 2025. He said he spoke to people regarding parking and encountered few negative complaints.


“The general consensus from people is there were no issues with parking,”


Christ Anglican Church got into the spirit as they opened their lot for a donation to the church.


Dave Rickman from Texas Jack's said it was his first time in Amherstburg.

“I love this town,” he said. “It's a good place.”


Rickman added they travel all over the United States and Canada for Ribfests. His favourite part? The ribs, of course.


Tex Robert Jr. of Bubba Lou's brought his American flag bandana, ability to joke with the customers and love of barbecuing ribs to Amherstburg. It was also his first time in town, though he travels the continent as well.


“The people are great,” he said. “They like to eat.”Robert and Rickman are both from Texas with Robert stating they did well in 2023 at the London Ribfest.


“I've been cooking for 30 years,” he said.


George Perica and Joe Perz have been friends for over 58 years and made the Amherstburg Ribfest one of their visits together last Friday.


“We get together on a regular basis,” said Perica.


They made the plan to head to Ribfest and enjoy the ribs, with it being one of the outings they do on a consistent basis. They joined the many others lining up for food throughout the three-day event.

Amherstburg Ribfest returns on new Ramsay St. home

By Ron Giofu

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