For over two decades, Sarnia’s waterfront has come alive each June with the scent of smoked ribs, the sound of live music, and the unmistakable hum of community coming together. Now in its 26th year, the Sarnia Kinsmen Ribfest is back at Centennial Park from June 13–15, 2025, and organizers are promising a weekend that blends tradition with fresh energy—and a whole lot of sauce.
A Signature Celebration With Deep Roots
The Sarnia Kinsmen Club has hosted Ribfest since 1999, and it has become one of the city’s most cherished events. What started as a small gathering has grown into a full-blown, three-day celebration drawing over 25,000 people in recent years.
More than just a food festival, Ribfest is a fundraising powerhouse. Over the years, the Kinsmen have raised more than $1 million for local charities and projects, including upgrades to Baxter Park, contributions to St. Joseph’s Hospice, The Inn of the Good Shepherd, and major donations to food banks, youth organizations, and health initiatives like the Kidney Foundation and Canadian Cancer Society.
This year, proceeds will once again support Cystic Fibrosis research, with $2 from every Black Gold Lager sold going toward the cause, along with all donations collected at the Bluewater Power Fun Park.
“CF is a big thing with the Kinsmen—it’s been one of our core causes since I started,” said Jack Struck, longtime Ribfest co-chair and community volunteer. “Next year will be my 50th year as an active Kinsmen member, and I’m proud to keep giving back through events like this.”
What’s New in 2025
Ribfest continues to evolve, and this year’s lineup adds fresh elements that blend excitement with local pride:
-
Bluewater Power Fun Park: A new, kid-focused zone featuring inflatables and the debut of a 40-foot rock climbing wall, where kids and adults alike can test their strength and courage.
-
Sarnia Street Machines Showcase: A car-lover’s dream, this grassroots classic car lineup will take over the south side of the Agora with over 100 vehicles on display.
-
Expanded Artisan and Craft Market: Now bigger than ever, featuring more local creators and makers offering everything from handmade jewellery to woodcraft.
-
All-Local Music Lineup: For the first time, every band and performer will hail from Lambton County. Expect a diverse mix of rock, country, and soul performed by some of the region’s most talented acts.
“We decided to go all-local for the entertainment this year,” Struck explained. “There’s something special about a community celebrating itself. These are bands we know, brewers we know, artists we know—it just feels right.”
And speaking of brewers: Ribfest continues its commitment to craft beer, featuring selections from Sarnia-based breweries that brew, bottle, and pour right here in the community.
“Craft beer is made by people in your city, owned by someone paying local taxes, and served by your neighbours,” Struck said. “That’s part of what makes this event feel authentic—it’s community from top to bottom.”
Affordable Family Fun, Right on the Waterfront
Ribfest will run Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., with a $5 admission for adults (kids under 16 are free). Entry includes access to live music, vendors, and the Kids Zone, with food, drinks, and crafts available for purchase.
For event updates, schedules, or to sign up as a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit sarniakinribfest.com or follow them on Facebook at @sarniakinsmenribfest.