Latest news with #Ribfest
Global News
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Global News
Lethbridge jam-packed with summer events ahead of Canada Day
With ribs smoking on the grill, dragon boats making waves in the water and residents parading for their beliefs, Lethbridge, Alta., is chock full of events leading up to Canada Day. Ribfest has once again stopped in Lethbridge, but this time the trucks are here for five days, wrapping up on July 1. Meanwhile, the 25th Rotary Dragon Boast Festival is set to entertain thousands just across the street at Henderson Lake. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the annual Lethbridge Pride Parade will liven the streets downtown. All this combines for a busy weekend and it doesn't even include the weekly events and activities, such as the summer farmers markets, Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens and more. 'We're super excited to be back in Lethbridge. It's such a beautiful city and the community here is always so welcoming,' said Kelsi McInnes, festival director for the Western Canada Ribfest Tour. Story continues below advertisement Ribfest has become a summer staple in the southern Alberta city and McInnes says the fact it lines up with the Dragon Boat Festival, Pride and other events is great for each activity. 'I think (patrons) are kind of hopping from event to event. They're going to hopefully go support the dragon boat races, but then they might come here and grab some ribs and grab a beer and listen to the music.' At the water's edge, Steven Urquhart, event chair for the Dragon Boat Festival, agrees the events only compliment one another. 'I think it's great for people to sort of circulate between these events. Of course, you can't be everywhere at once but I think it's wonderful to have these big events, it helps the city feel alive and also shows how much is going on.' Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy For a quarter century, the dragon boats have entertained the masses, becoming one of the largest annual events in Lethbridge. However, Urquhart says there's a whole lot more happening at Henderson Lake this weekend than just some skilled paddling. 'There's a whole festival side, you see all the food trucks, the beer garden. It's a whole weekend in and of itself and I think that's wonderful.' He says the economic impact of the festival surpasses on the million-dollar mark every year, making it crucial to hotels, restaurants and other industries. Story continues below advertisement 'We have teams that come from out of province, teams from (British Columbia), Saskatchewan, then from the United States, from Montana,' said Urquhart. The events aren't just for Lethbridge or southern Alberta residents, either. Related News Pickering Rotary Ribfest returns for 2025 'We're going to Ribfest, the dragon boat festival, (the farmers' market),' said Susan Thompson. Out enjoying Henderson Lake with her niece, Abbey Zellmer, Thompson recently travelled from out of province to take in everything Lethbridge has to offer this weekend. 'It's the perfect time we came,' said Thompson. For Zellmer, it's an exciting way to launch the summer, which she says is her favourite season. 'I feel really lucky because I just graduated and now I get to enjoy the summer break. My aunt (Thompson) and uncle just came in from B.C., so it's really cool that they get to experience this all too,' said Zellmer. For some of the youngest residents in the city, Canada Day itself will be the highlight of all upcoming events. 'Last year there was a dance and I liked watching the dances and there's really fun things to do,' said Isabela Morgado. She wasn't the only kid eagerly awaiting a chance to celebrate Canada's birthday. Story continues below advertisement 'I like seeing all the celebrations and I love to taste the food,' said Justin Soares. However, no food is worthy of tasting if it isn't made with love. Luckily, for guests at Ribfest, a chance meeting in 2022 means the food should be worth the wait. Ned Simpson and Brooke Weir both currently work for Blazin' BBQ, but three years ago they were on opposite grills, though nothing could keep them apart. 'We owe a lot to the ribs and the people who came out and supported us, kept us going throughout the years. So, it's fun to be here. We put a lot of that love we have for each other into our food,' said Simpson. For Weir, barbecue represents far more than great-tasting food. 'We're very lucky that we got so much out of barbecue that wasn't just barbecue. We've gotten so much out of this, it's fantastic.' Now she says Ribfest has transformed from a community event into something that feels a lot more like a family gathering. 'We cook dinner for everyone and you look out in the parking lot and everyone's eating the food you made for them. It's almost like one big family meal sometimes. It feels really good, really special,' said Weir.
Hamilton Spectator
17-06-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Woodstock to conduct safety review of Connell Park Raceway
Connell Park Raceway will be the focus of a safety review by the Town of Woodstock after a three-year-old died on the opening day of harness races on June 14. The toddler died when he was struck by the starting gate attached to the pacing truck. In a news release dated Tuesday, June 16, the town said a comprehensive safety review of Connell Park Raceway would begin to 'ensure that all future events at the venue provide a safe environment for both participants and spectators.' Town administrators will meet with the facility's user groups as they conduct their review. 'Out of an abundance of caution, the Town will be reaching out to all groups with scheduled events at Connell Park Raceway to review plans and determin whether those events can proceed prior to the completion of the safety review. This includes upcoming harness racing events, and any other large-scale gatherings scheduled to take place at the facility.' Some larger events scheduled for Connell Park Raceway include the upcoming Ribfest on June 20, 21, and 22, which raises money for local cancer support groups, harness racing on June 28, and the Woodstock Truck and Tractor Pull, scheduled for July 11 and 12. 'We recognize the significant time, effort, and dedication that go into organizing community events,' said Trina Jones, Mayor of Woodstock. 'We are committed to working collaboratively with our event partners to support them through this process. At the same time, we must prioritize public safety and take every necessary step to prevent future accidents.' The news release said the review may result in 'scheduling adjustments.' The Woodstock Police Force, which closed the track late Saturday while it conducted its investigation, has since 'released' the track back to the town. To support people during this difficult time, town administration has organized a community support session on Wednesday, June 18, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Rotary Room in Studio 2 of the lower level of the AYR Motor Centre. The session is open to everyone. Mental health professionals and support workers will be on-site, offering one-on-one or group conversations, resource information, and guidance on where to access further support. The town announced this would be an 'evening to connect and heal in a safe space.' If you need support sooner, we offer a reminder of the support options available: Mental Health Support Phone Numbers: Woodstock Office – 1-506-325-4419 Perth Office – 1-506-273-4701 Child and Youth Office – 1-506-325-4475 Members of the driving club are collecting donations in support of the family to help with ongoing expenses. Those wishing to donate can send e-transfers to woodstockdrivingclub@ . They ask that those making donations include the word 'Gunnar' in the subject line. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
CTV News
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- CTV News
Prescott, Ont. hosts Ribfest for the first time to support youth charity
Ribs Royale BBQ and The Hogfather at Prescott Ribfest. June 15, 2025. (Jack Richardson/CTV News Ottawa). Ribbers have taken over Prescott, Ont. this weekend at the Leo Boivin Community Centre and Fort Wellington. The first annual Prescott Ribfest and Sportsman Show, being hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Leeds and Grenville, started on Friday and will wrap up Sunday afternoon. Admission to the event is free but donations for BBBS' mentoring programs are accepted to support the region's youth. The event features two ribbers, Ribs Royale BBQ and The Hogfather, along with local vendors. A beer garden that is operated by Windmill Brewery, based in Johnstown, Ont., is sharing a portion of its proceeds with BBBS. More details to come
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Podcast lets listeners delve into the quirky things that make Naperville, Naperville
Dana Bern and Stuart Meyer share a self-proclaimed nerd-hood for all things Naperville. It's a loving fascination, one the longtime friends relish. Now, they want to get the whole community — and really any potential Naperville buffs out there — in on the intrigue. Bern and Meyer have started a new podcast dedicated to 'peeling back the layers' on Naperville, the pair says. Dubbed 'Naperville Unwrapped,' the podcast releases weekly. Episodes are short, just over five minutes at most, and focus on the idiosyncrasies — whether that's a person, place or phenomenon — that make Naperville, Naperville. Launched earlier this spring, nine episodes have been released to date. Topics have ranged from the history of Naperville's Centennial Beach to nature exploration at Knoch Knolls Park. 'We're really just looking to turn Naperville inside out for all to see,' Meyer said. Meyer and Bern have known each other for years, they said. The pair met through their kids, who attended elementary through high school in Naperville together. 'They were best buddies,' Bern said. Bern is a real estate agent who has lived in Naperville for more than two decades. Originally from Wilmette, she was living in Chicago when in 2004, her family decided it was time to move, she said. They had a wide breadth of places to choose from but Bern recalled going out to Naperville to attend Ribfest right around when they were weighing their options. The city piqued her interest and 'that was that,' she said. Meanwhile, Meyer founded and owns Social Frequency Media Communications and lived in Naperville for more than 20 years. He moved to Florida in 2022 but still visits Naperville a few times a year. In that time, Meyer remained in touch with Bern. Towards the beginning of the year, the pair started toying with the idea of launching a podcast. The venture was born out of their affinity for Naperville and their desire to tell its story — especially from a local's perspective — to a wider audience, they said. 'It's really a fresh lens on a familiar place,' Meyer said. 'I mean Naperville, let's face it, so many of us love it but it can get a bad rap from people who have never stepped foot in our community. My intention (is that this podcast) is a love letter (to the city).' Meyer and Bern decided to create a concise podcast that gives listeners audio snapshots into anything fun, quirky and quintessentially Naperville. Their first episode released April 22 and tells the story of how Naperville became Naperville, taking listeners back to the city's founding in 1831. Another episode highlights Stenger Brewery, one of Naperville's earliest brewhouses. The same episode also offers a fun fact about a famous employee who worked at Stenger (and in the interest of staying spoiler-free, will remain anonymous here). There's an episode about the Naperville Cow Tunnel, built to be used by cattle more than 100 years ago near Webster Street and the current BNSF railroad north of downtown, and another about stargazing with the Naperville Astronomical Association. Bern acts as host for the podcast, or as she says to listeners, is 'your local curatorial tour guide' each episode. Meyer, who has previous experience podcasting, stays behind the scenes. Asked what other subjects they hope to delve into, Meyer and Bern said they already have a list of nearly 100 topics in their back pocket. With their first batch of episodes out, they say the response so far has been 'incredible.' And the duo is having a pretty good time producing the content too. 'I'm having a ball,' Bern said. 'I'm loving it. I love talking to people. I'm probably talking people's ears off about it, but I'm just having so much fun.' 'We're just really looking forward to seeing what the road ahead has (in store) as people continue to fall in love with the show,' Meyer said. '…Who knows what we'll be able to do once that really starts to happen.' 'Naperville Unwrapped' is streaming on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Episodes are also available at tkenny@
Chicago Tribune
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
Podcast lets listeners delve into the quirky things that make Naperville, Naperville
Dana Bern and Stuart Meyer share a self-proclaimed nerd-hood for all things Naperville. It's a loving fascination, one the longtime friends relish. Now, they want to get the whole community — and really any potential Naperville buffs out there — in on the intrigue. Bern and Meyer have started a new podcast dedicated to 'peeling back the layers' on Naperville, the pair says. Dubbed 'Naperville Unwrapped,' the podcast releases weekly. Episodes are short, just over five minutes at most, and focus on the idiosyncrasies — whether that's a person, place or phenomenon — that make Naperville, Naperville. Launched earlier this spring, nine episodes have been released to date. Topics have ranged from the history of Naperville's Centennial Beach to nature exploration at Knoch Knolls Park. 'We're really just looking to turn Naperville inside out for all to see,' Meyer said. Meyer and Bern have known each other for years, they said. The pair met through their kids, who attended elementary through high school in Naperville together. 'They were best buddies,' Bern said. Bern is a real estate agent who has lived in Naperville for more than two decades. Originally from Wilmette, she was living in Chicago when in 2004, her family decided it was time to move, she said. They had a wide breadth of places to choose from but Bern recalled going out to Naperville to attend Ribfest right around when they were weighing their options. The city piqued her interest and 'that was that,' she said. Meanwhile, Meyer founded and owns Social Frequency Media Communications and lived in Naperville for more than 20 years. He moved to Florida in 2022 but still visits Naperville a few times a year. In that time, Meyer remained in touch with Bern. Towards the beginning of the year, the pair started toying with the idea of launching a podcast. The venture was born out of their affinity for Naperville and their desire to tell its story — especially from a local's perspective — to a wider audience, they said. 'It's really a fresh lens on a familiar place,' Meyer said. 'I mean Naperville, let's face it, so many of us love it but it can get a bad rap from people who have never stepped foot in our community. My intention (is that this podcast) is a love letter (to the city).' Meyer and Bern decided to create a concise podcast that gives listeners audio snapshots into anything fun, quirky and quintessentially Naperville. Their first episode released April 22 and tells the story of how Naperville became Naperville, taking listeners back to the city's founding in 1831. Another episode highlights Stenger Brewery, one of Naperville's earliest brewhouses. The same episode also offers a fun fact about a famous employee who worked at Stenger (and in the interest of staying spoiler-free, will remain anonymous here). There's an episode about the Naperville Cow Tunnel, built to be used by cattle more than 100 years ago near Webster Street and the current BNSF railroad north of downtown, and another about stargazing with the Naperville Astronomical Association. Bern acts as host for the podcast, or as she says to listeners, is 'your local curatorial tour guide' each episode. Meyer, who has previous experience podcasting, stays behind the scenes. Asked what other subjects they hope to delve into, Meyer and Bern said they already have a list of nearly 100 topics in their back pocket. With their first batch of episodes out, they say the response so far has been 'incredible.' And the duo is having a pretty good time producing the content too. 'I'm having a ball,' Bern said. 'I'm loving it. I love talking to people. I'm probably talking people's ears off about it, but I'm just having so much fun.' 'We're just really looking forward to seeing what the road ahead has (in store) as people continue to fall in love with the show,' Meyer said. '…Who knows what we'll be able to do once that really starts to happen.' 'Naperville Unwrapped' is streaming on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Episodes are also available at
