Ribfest Chicago

Ribfest is officially underway in Northcenter!

Come to the fest through Sunday at 10pm for barbecue, music, and fun! Learn more at ribfest-chicago.com.

We're selling Ribfest Merch! You can purchase our 2026 t-shirt, art poster and more at the orange Chamber tent at 4054 N Lincoln!

In just a few hours, Ribfest Chicago 2026 will be underway! Don't forget that you can text-to-vote for your favorite rib vendor!

The People's Choice Award winner will be announced at the Irving Park Stage on Sunday at 6:45pm.

Watch the pros pick the best ribs at the Northcenter Town Square Stage on Sunday at 4pm!

Get ready to combine two loves: whiskey and ribs! Join us for a whiskey tasting session and sample a wide range of whiskey and bourbon from local favorites to international brands.

Our Saturday 1pm tasting session will include a tasting glass and an elevated experience with local whiskey purveyors! Guest mixologists from local bars will create cocktails using local whiskeys & Bitter Ex Bitters & Syrups.

Tickets can be purchased online at ribfest-chicago.com/whiskey-tasting.

Ribfest is almost here! As you make plans to join us, we ask that you consider making a donation at the festival gate. Your contribution goes right back into the Northcenter community, supporting local nonprofit organizations, economic development initiatives, and Chamber programming.

Thanks to the generosity of festival attendees, Ribfest has provided nearly $400,000 in direct funding to these worthy causes, to date. Every donation helps make a lasting impact!

Taste, judge, and discover which vendors will earn bragging rights as Ribfest Chicago's best of 2026! Check out our 2026 rib vendors here, or view our full vendor list at ribfest-chicago.com/vendors.

Get the most out of your Ribfest experience by becoming a Ribfest Chicago VIP! Our VIP package includes: access to our VIP lounge (with exclusive seating, a private restroom, a phone charging station, and games!), 2 drink tickets, an official t-shirt, poster, and more!

VIP passes can be purchased at ribfest-chicago.com, or at the orange tent onsite at 4054 N. Lincoln.

In addition to delicious food, we’re bringing unforgettable entertainment to Ribfest! Check out our vibrant entertainment lineup across two stages: the Main Stage at Lincoln & Irving and the Northcenter Town Square stage.

You can view the full lineup at ribfest-chicago.com/entertainment

Kick up your Ribfest experience with our VIP package: the perfect way to add comfort, convenience, and a few extra perks to your day!

Choose a one or two day pass and enjoy:
‣ Access to the VIP Lounge Tent with exclusive seating, a private restroom, and a phone charging station
‣ 2 complimentary drink tickets
‣ 1 official Ribfest Chicago 2025 t-shirt, poster, and pin
‣ Fast-pass access to beverages at the middle beverage tent

Learn More & Book Now: ribfest-chicago.com/vip