Security and Bag Policy

As part of the Security Guidelines for Ribfest, the list of items that are permitted inside has changed. Only bags that comply with standards of 16" x 16" x 8" will be admitted. Guests will be asked to return all restricted items back to their vehicle. Guests who are caught in the festival site with a restricted item(s) will have the object confiscated and may be subject to ejection.

Our security team reserves the right to search any and all bags before granting access into Ribfest. We appreciate your cooperation, please review the following guidelines before coming to Ribfest:

Permitted Items:

  • bags smaller than 16" x 16" x 8"
  • binoculars
  • blankets
  • cameras still and video ( tri-, uni-, or mono- pods are prohibited)
  • headphones
  • liquid sunscreen and bug spray
  • plastic baby bottles if you have a child in your party
  • lawn chairs
  • strollers
  • umbrellas (excluding golf umbrellas, patio umbrellas, and umbrellas with a metal tip)

Prohibited Items:

  • animals (except certified service animals or service animals in training)
  • bags larger than 16" x 16" x 8"
  • bottles (except if needed by a child in your party)
  • coolers
  • laser devices/pointers
  • noisemaking devices: air horns, bullhorns, thundersticks, cowbells, bells, horns, kazoos, whistles, and other noisemakers
  • objects that can be used as missiles or projectiles: sticks, bats, clubs, frisbees, beachballs
  • obscene or indecent clothing
  • aerosols of any kind
  • selfie sticks
  • skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, hover boards, Segways, scooters, bikes or similar devices
  • squirt guns including super soakers
  • sticks, including signs attached to sticks
  • toy guns or knives
  • unmanned aerial vehicles/drones
  • weapons of any kind

    • FAQs

    Questions about Ribfest?
    I have some answers! Here are some helpful tips for an enjoyable festival!

    Do I have to buy a separate ticket for the concert?

    No, your admission to the festival includes all the entertainment. Admission at the gate on either day from 12PM-2:59PM is free and after 3PM is $24. Or you can buy passes in advance:

    • 2 Day Pass: $24
    • 1 Day Pass : $14
    • VIP per day: $52

    What time do the bands start?

    Check out our lineup and show times HERE.

    I bought Ribfest tickets in advance. Where should I go?

    You made the right call! Pre-purchased ticketholders can enter the festival through the main entrance on Water St.

    I didn't buy advance tickets and need to purchase them on-site. What about me?

    Not a problem, either. In this instance you should head to the main entrance at the bridge on Water Street. Please arrive early- we are likely to sell out!

    How do you purchase the ribs/food from the vendors?

    All food vendors accept cash and/or credit directly at their booth spaces. Tickets are not needed for purchasing food.

    How do we get drinks?

    Alcoholic beverages are available in designated areas throughout the festival grounds and must be paid for using drink tickets, which are available at convenient kiosks for the price of $2 per ticket. The amount of tickets per beverage depends on your drink choice. Check the menu HERE.

    If you plan on drinking, you WILL need to show your ID at the beer dome to get a 21+ wristband. Please have your ID ready when you arrive.

    What about non-alcoholic drinks?

    We have water, soda, and juice available for one or two tickets a piece.

    Will there be other food available in addition to ribs?

    Yes, vendors will also see a variety of barbecue items in addition to ribs, along with various side dishes. We'll also have desserts from Not Just an Almond, drinks from Maui Wowie Smoothies, tacos from Teresa's Kitchen, and carnival-style concessions from Ibison Concessions.

    Do you take credit card, or is it cash only?

    Our admission gates and all our ticket booths accept both cash and credit card. We also have an ATM located on site.

    Do you allow re-entry?

    We allow re-entry prior to 3PM. There is no re-entry if you leave the festival after 3PM.

    What does the VIP ticket include?

    Enjoy Ribfest in style! The VIP ticket includes access to a private bathroom, seating area and beer trailer. Everyone needs a ticket to access the VIP area, including kids.

    Where is a good place to park?

    There are several lots, parking ramps, and metered spots near the festival site. You can find a parking map HERE.

    Can we bring our own lawn chairs?

    Yes, in fact, we recommend it! Lawn chairs and blankets are a great way to ensure you have your own comfortable seat. If you choose to bring a bagged lawn chair, please remove the chair from the bag when going through security. There will be signs letting you know where you can sit once the headliners start.

    Is there an age limit to attend?

    Kids are welcome! We just ask that after 7 p.m., all kids under the age of 17 must be with an adult. Kids under 12 get into the festival for free. Kids need a ticket to get into the VIP area.

    Are pets allowed?

    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the festival grounds for Ribfest. Only service animals with their required identification are allowed.

    Please note, some artists have requested that attendees not use long lens equipment or video. Signs will be posted at the entrance and announcements will be made and we ask that you respect the artists wishes.

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