Visit the Elkhorn Ribfest this July for 5 days of unbelievably delicious, mouthwatering BBQ and high quality entertainment located on the beautiful Walworth County Fairgrounds. Happening July 13-17, the event features world renowned professional BBQ champions, backyard grillers, great entertainment, an artisan village and so much more. Not only will you experience some of the best BBQ in the world, but there will be other fun enriching experiences. After you have had your fill of food, kick back and enjoy some live music and a cold beverage or two. And don’t forget about the carnival rides!

  1. It’s free.
    This event is free to attend — and has free parking. But don’t forget cash for all of the delicious food vendors! Which brings us to our next point…
  2. Bring your friends.
    “Go with a group, 3 or 4 friends. Everyone can get something from different vendors. Then split the food among your group to give yourself a chance to sample everything,” recommends Larry Gaffey, General Manager of the Walworth County Fairgrounds.
  3. Bring your appetite.
    Vendors from all over the country will be on-site for this five-day event. Got a picky eater in your crew? There are plenty of other carnival-style food vendors.
  4. Bring a chair.
    Bring your own lawn chair or picnic blanket, or grab a “free lawn” chair (aka a bale of straw) distributed free throughout the fairgrounds.
  5. Bring your bike.
    Got a motorcycle you’d like to show off? Bring your chopper for the Ribfest Rib Run, a free motorcycle show open to all. There are cash prizes for each category plus a Grand Champion award.
  6. Stay for a while.
    Bigger than ever – they have 20 bands playing over the five-day festival! You can find the full music line-up on the Ribfest website.
  7. There’s plenty to do!
    After you’re done filling up on delicious BBQ, head to the carnival to try your hand at the games and rides. Or check out the artisan village to pick up some crafts from area vendors.
  8. Vote!
    You can vote for your favorite BBQ vendor (all the more reason to try them all!). Ballots are located in the T-shirt booth near the entrance. Awards are handed out Sunday at 5:45 pm.

Got more questions? Head to wisconsinribfest.com for all of the event details or call the fair office at 262-723-3228.  We’ll see you there for… Good Food, Good Music, Good Times!