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This year will be the last Ribfest for Kamloops, after a dozen years in the community.
Kamloops Daybreak Rotary made the announcement Friday morning and the decision to end the event after the 13th year was made by club members, a statement said.
The final Ribfest event will be happening Aug. 8–10 in Riverside Park.
“Announcements like this are never easy, especially concerning a community event so beloved by so many people, but it’s time,” shared Terry-Lynn Stone, Chair of the Daybreak Rotary Ribfest Management Committee.
“Over the years, we’ve invited people to Ribfest to enjoy world class ribs, excellent entertainment, and a chance to picnic outdoors with the broader community. Over those years, we’ve had the opportunity to play host to tens of thousands of people and raise money for local community charities. It’s bittersweet to host our thirteenth and final Ribfest this year, but we as a club look with anticipation for other opportunities to make a difference in the community.”
Daybreak Rotary member and Ribfest leader, Danica Wilkinson, said she was proud of the $850,000 raised and donated back to the community through the annual event.
Last year’s event raised over $60,000 and had around 80,000 people attend over three days.
The Rotary club estimates a local economic impact of over $5 million in 2024.
“On behalf of our entire club, we would like to thank the many sponsors, volunteers, participants, and attendees for their support and our hearts are full of so many great stories and memories,” said Stone.