The Bowmanville Rotary Club yesterday announced that it will not be hosting a Ribfest in 2025 due to the loss of Clarington Fields location.
“While we are actively working to find a new home for this beloved event, we have made the difficult decision that we cannot proceed with Ribfest in 2025 until we secure a suitable venue,” said a statement posted by Steve Kay, Ribs & Brews Co-Chair.
“This official announcement hurts my heart. The second weekend of June is going to be strange in 2025. Trust me, all options were considered,” said Kay in a social media post.
The Rotary Club pointed out that the first Ribfest was held in 2008 on Canada Day weekend, before moving to its usual June weekend. Since then Ribfest quickly became Clarington’s marquee event, raising approximately $1.5 million for local community programs.
“This fantastic party was helped fund essential initiatives such as our Respite Care program, student bursaries, BOAA, the Grandview Children’s Centre, Marigold Hospice, Bethesda House, and many others,” said the statement.
It said over the years, with the support of volunteers, talented musicians, local businesses, vendors, and of course, the hundreds of thousands of participants who attended from across the Durham region and beyond, Ribfest has made a significant impact.
“Please understand that this decision was not made lightly. We remain hopeful that the future will include Ribfest returning to Bowmanville, and we thank everyone who has supported and participated in this event over the years,” the statement added.
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