The 25-year old Oshawa Ribfest will not be held this year, the Rotary Club announced, and a councillor yesterday clarified that paid parking at Lakeview Park is not the reason for the cancellation.
Loss of venue had led to the cancellation of the Bowmanville Ribfest in Clarington last year (see below).
“After careful consideration, we have decided not to move forward with the Oshawa Rotary Ribfest in 2026,” said a club statement. “This was not an easy decision. We know how much this event means to our vendors, partners and thousands of families who look forward to it each year.”
“Contrary to some negative posts blaming the new parking regime at Lakeview Park for the decision to not have Rotary Ribfest in Oshawa, I urge readers to read the press release sent out by the Rotary Club of Oshawa,” said Oshawa and Regional Councillor, Brian Nicholson.
The City of Oshawa is introducing paid parking at Lakeview Park and Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park from May 15 this year. The Ribfest is held in August.
What Happens To The $30,000 Grant Now?
The Rotary Club cited rising operational costs, economic pressures and sponsorship challenges as the “key factors” behind the decision.
Councillor Nicholson pointed out that Rotary was approved for a 2026 Oshawa Community Grant in the amount of $30,000 for in-kind services to support the event occurring in Oshawa.
It is not clear what happens to the grant now.
$1 Million Raised For Community
“We are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received over the years,” said the Rotary announcement. “In particular, we extend our sincere thanks to the City of Oshawa for their ongoing partnership—providing the park, staff support, infrastructure assistance, and so much more.”
The club pointed out that thanks to residents, sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and dedicated Rotarians, Ribfest has raised nearly $1 million over the past 25 years—funds that have gone directly back into supporting our local community.
No Commitment Yet On 2027 Return
“While we won’t be gathering in the park this August, we remain hopeful for the future. We value our relationships with the city, our vendors, Ribbers, entertainers, and the entire community—and we sincerely hope to bring this event back when the time is right,” said the club announcement.
“City council and our staff will reach out to Rotary Club of Oshawa to thank them for their service and commitment to our community and work with Rotary in order to support efforts to have the event return in 2027,” said Councillor Nicholson.
Related Story
You May Also Wish To Read
401 Crashes: Driver drifts into rail, ricochets to other side ++
‘Proposed changes to school boards won’t put students first’
Too many traditions are being cancelled in this province/country! I would hate to say that it involves cowardly people on the board that can’t or won’t stand up to others!