From May until September, Cleveland and its surrounding areas come alive with dozens of festivals, many of which celebrate Northeast Ohio’s rich ethnic heritage.
One of the most popular can’t miss events is the Great American Rib Cook-off and Music Festival, which has been held each year during Memorial Day weekend in downtown Cleveland and is considered to mark the unofficial start of the summer season in Northeast Ohio.
The event, which started in 1992, traditionally features live music, barbecued ribs with all the fixings, and lots of fun. This year, the four day event will be held at Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica and will feature ten BBQ masters from all over the state and country, with Northeast Ohio being represented by Jack on the Bone based in Massillon. Prizes for Greatest Ribs, Greatest Sauce, and People’s choice will be awarded.
Of course, one of the best things about the festival is the music. This year’s lineup includes Collective Soul, Seether, Bruce Hornsby and more. The concerts are all included in the admission price.
The Great American Rib Cook-off and Music Festival will be open on Friday, May 27 from 11am to 11pm, Saturday, May 28 and Sunday, May 29 from noon to 11pm and Monday, May 30 from noon to 8pm.
Admission is free until 3pm every day, after which tickets will be $7 for adults, while children under 12 can get in free. As mentioned, entertainment is included in the price of admission, while food prices will vary. $2 discount coupons are available at Marc’s or online through WKYC.com.
