Festivals, Fairs & Special Events
26th Annual Ribfest Chicago June 7, 2026
Go HOG WILD and enjoy the sweet smells of BBQ filling the streets of Lincoln, Damen and Irving Park Rd. Returning for its 26th year in Northcenter, Ribfest Chicago, is clearly all about one thing – ribs!
But what goes better with ribs than live eclectic music on two stages, cold beer, back this year – bourbon/whiskey tasting, an expanded kids’ area and more. Ribfest Chicago will satisfy with unforgettable barbecue. The fest occurs on Friday, June 5 from 4 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Sunday, June 6-7, from Noon to 10 p.m. at 4000 N. Lincoln Ave (located at Lincoln/Irving Park/Damen roads).
Attendees will experience top BBQ ribbers who offer racks of their signature ribs and sides, while competing for two Best of Ribfest Chicago titles: the People’s Choice award chosen by the crowd (QR scan to vote); and the top award chosen by a panel of celebrity judges. Taste ribs from Armadillo’s BBQ (2025 Critics Choice ‘Best Ribs” Winner), Aussom Aussie BBQ, Austin Texas Lightning, Chicago BBQ Company, ELC ( Eva Lee Cooking), Hell’s BBQ, Jamaica One Love Kitchen, Lexington Betty Smoke House, Mr. Greens BBQ, Salt Creek BBQ, and Robinson’s #1 Ribs.
Back this year: Daily Whiskey/Bourbon Tasting! Sample up to 16 local and international whiskies. Reserve your spot here.
Families can enjoy the spacious kids’ area with inflatables and games. For those wanting the ultimate experience, VIP/Passes are available for purchase. VIP ticket holders get access to the VIP Lounge Tent with private seating, restroom, charging stations, swag bag, drink tickets and more!
Ribfest Chicago continues to be Chicago’s most anticipated street festival, welcoming BBQ fans from all over to celebrate the summer at this three-day event!
A $10 suggested donation upon entry benefits the Northcenter community. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the 26th anniversary of this incredible festival,” said Eileen Keleghan, Executive Director. Northcenter Chamber of Commerce. “Proceeds from the gate donations are invested right back into the Northcenter community and help support local schools and nonprofit organizations, economic development and greening efforts. To date, the fest has provided nearly $400,000 in direct funding to these worthy causes.”
Live Band Schedule on Two Stages
Main Stage Entertainment @ Irving Park Rd.
Friday, June 5
6:00pm – iPop
8:00pm – Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press
Saturday, June 6
12:30pm – The Birkenrocks
2:00pm – Super Creeps: The Music of David Bowie
4:00pm – Fletcher Rockwell
6:00pm – La Fete Du Funk
8:00pm – Second Hand News: Music of Fleetwood Mac
Sunday, June 7
1:30pm – School of Rock
3:30pm – The Whiskey Misfits
5:15pm – Rearview: Pearl Jam Tribute
6:45pm – Rib Contest Announcements
7:30pm – Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
Northcenter Stage @ Town Square (on Belle Plaine)
Friday, June 5
5:30pm – Drunk In July
7:00pm – Black Oil Brothers
Saturday, June 6
3:00pm – UpBeat Music & Arts
4:30pm – Chase Wilkins Jazz Trio
6:00pm – Sam Fazio
7:30pm – Luxe Band
Sunday, June 7
1:30pm – Caught Steelin’
3:00pm – Pink Raspberry Cats
4:00pm – Rib Contest Judging
5:00pm – 3 Martini Jeannie
7:00pm – Band Calderisi
For more information, please visit https://www.ribfest-chicago.com/
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