A downpour couldn鈥檛 dampen the smoky scent of barbecued ribs at 91原创鈥檚 RibFest on Friday, Aug. 15 when people still turned out for the first day of the three-day event at McLeod Athletic Park.
Organized by the local Rotary Clubs, RibFest 91原创 is a volunteer-run fundraiser with all proceeds going to local charities and service projects.
The event features award-winning ribbers, live music, a jam-packed KidZone, and admission by donation.
RibFest co-chair Rick Davis said he was expecting really bad rain and wind.
鈥淚t is heavy rain, but we鈥檝e already had over a thousand people today. People are so committed to coming to this event,鈥 said Davis.
Among those braving the weather were Guilford residents Bill and Fran Kuyvenhoven. Fran was determined to attend, despite her husband鈥檚 initial hesitation due to the rain.
When asked why they chose to come out in the afternoon rain, Fran said, 鈥淭here's less people. We can get what we want. And we don't have to stand in line forever.鈥
For ribber Sophia Harding, of Prairie Smoke and Spice, the event is more than a job.
鈥淚t鈥檚 fun meeting new people, including the other ribbers,鈥 said Harding.
However, Harding still remains competitive alongside other ribbers. She said she hopes to win People鈥檚 Choice.
The other featured ribbers are Smoke Dem Bones, Guerrilla Q., Rusty鈥檚 BBQ, Gator BBQ, and Boss Hog鈥檚.
RibFest runs through Sunday, with hopes of sunnier skies and likely bigger crowds.
鈥淐ome down regardless of whether it鈥檚 raining or shining. We have everything going. Come and have some fun,鈥 said Davis.
For more information about RibFest 91原创, people can visit ribfestlangley.com.