Caledon Ribfest returns this weekend

By Zachary Roman

Get your napkins and wet wipes ready.

This weekend, July 7 to 9, Caledon Ribfest is returning. It's being hosted by The Caputo Group in the Bolton Canadian Tire parking lot and will feature three “ribbers”, around 20 food trucks/vendors, and a stacked lineup of cover bands. 

Caledon Ribfest is open on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Admission to the event is by donation to one of the following non-profits: Meaghan's Music Room, Caledon Meals on Wheels, and the Caledon Chamber of Commerce. 

Anthony Caputo of The Caputo Group said he's heard from many members of the Caledon community who said they were missing Caledon Ribfest, which was last held in 2016.

“I know how much of a huge venture this is… but I'm a glutton for punishment. I said, ‘let's give it a try',” said Caputo.

Once he and his team began organizing this year's Caledon Ribfest, Caputo realized it was a little easier than he'd thought. He said he found great support in Caledon Councillors who wanted to make sure the event would be able to happen. 

In addition to the great food options and live music, there's going to be a beer garden at Caledon Ribfest featuring brews from Caledon Hills Brewery. A kids zone with lots of games will ensure the little ones will have a good time too.

“I just hope we are able to raise as much money as possible for these community groups,” said Caputo. 

The live music planned for Caledon Ribfest has a cover band theme, and Caputo said it's because he wanted to create buzz for the event and make a great impression on attendees.

Some of the acts performing include Will Chalmers as Neil Diamond; Bon Jovi Forever (billed as Canada's premier Bon Jovi tribute); Stephen's Garage (performing rock songs from different eras); Sound of Sting, a Police tribute band; Shania Twin (billed as North America's best Shania Twain tribute act); and the Elvis Experience, featuring two award-winning Elvis Presley impersonators. 

“Music is what's going to be the biggest draw — other than the ribs, obviously,” said Caputo.

Over the course of the weekend there will be a rib eating contest and an award given out for the best ribs. While ribs will of course be taking centre stage at Caledon Ribfest, Caputo said with all the different food vendors in attendance there will be food for everyone to enjoy.

Caputo said he's hoping to have a successful Caledon Ribfest this weekend and begin growing the event each year until Caledon has the premier ribfest event in all of Ontario.

“If that wouldn't be a draw to Caledon, I don't know what would be,” he said.