18th Annual
August 5-7, 2010

Community Advocates Ribfest 2010

SPECIAL EVENTS

Hours of Event:
11 a.m.-12:30 a.m. on Thursday
11 a.m.-1:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday

Cost: $5.00 entrance fee after 4:00 pm;
Friday and Saturday night $10 after 7 p.m. (depending on the entertainment)

Want to participate in one of the special events? Click here to download the sign-up form.

Best Ribs in Kalamazoo Contest     Thursday, August 5 @ 8 p.m.
Restaurants and catering companies in Kalamazoo County are invited to promote their ribs in a blind taste test competition that includes an illustrious panel of judges. As a result of this event, the Best Ribs in Kalamazoo designation will be awarded that night with a formal presentation on Friday night. The winner receives the right to purchase a booth the following year for a one-year presentation of their ribs at Ribfest. The entry is free and the deadline is Monday, August 4.

Ribs Cooking Demonstration           Friday, August 6 @ 2 p.m.
Stump the Vendors! It’s a tell all (sort a) and answer the questions. If the vendors hesitate when you ask them a question – you win a prize. It might be a coupon for a ½ rack of ribs, it might be a t-shirt, it might be passes for Saturday’s event. Regardless, come with your questions and see if you can stump the vendors. And, yes the vendors will share some of their techniques; all you need to do is simply ask. No reservations needed. This class is free.

Sponsor’s Choice      Friday, August 6 @ 7 p.m.
Sponsors select an employee to participate as a judge in the Sponsor’s Choice. On stage, this illustrious panel of judges sample, in a blind test, the award winning ribs of our 8 participating rib vendors. It’s really fun, and there are free beverages to keep the taste buds cooled off. This is one of the Rib Vendor’s favorite award. As a blind test, it’s fun to watch and taste.

Children’s Event Area     Saturday, August 7 ~ 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The employee volunteer team from Target Distribution center are the supporters of the Children’s area this year. Events will feature a food art and edible delights. Hands-on arts and crafts along with snow cones and dinobounce. Facepainting, Jingles the Clown and games are the fun “fair” at Ribfest. Donations accepted.

Hudsonville Ice Cream from Holland, MI is coming to Ribfest and they have great plans for Saturday including the chance to win the rights for taste testing. Watch for more details on building a community the largest ice cream sundae at ACFP. There’s also a rumor that Hudsonville just might feature a special ice cream flavor just for Ribfest.

Kalamazoo Cook-off       Saturday, August 7 @ 1 p.m.
It’s new. Teams or individuals who want to be recognized for their best ribs participate in a competitive, and yet thoroughly enjoyable, Ribs Cook-off. The cost is $25 for amateurs and $50 for professionals with cash prizes available for the winners. The Southwest Michigan Culinary Association Federation chefs are the judges along with our local food editors. Winners receive cash prizes and trophies A special event brochure is available providing more information.

Community Advocates Tent                                  All Three Days   
Initiated in 2008, individuals with developmental disabilities hosted a vendor tent designed to sell their fine art, fine crafts and cottage industries. This tent is a true reflection of the commitment by Community Advocates to provide programs and opportunities for the clients they represent and serve. Hosting the Community Advocate’s Tent is also a commitment to positioning the varied small businesses that create a meaningful opportunity.

People’s Choice Award      All three days – awarded Saturday evening
The sponsoring company’s name would be included on all voting cards signage and voting box.  Individuals complete the forms at the voting booth.