Bullen Park
527 Fraser Street

September 10th to 12th

Admission: Free

Esquimalt’s Ribfest is on this year, and it’s following in the heels of British Columbia’s rollout of the vaccine passport. There won’t be any gatekeeper checks. But for anyone people concerned about catching that virus are best advised not to attend (entrepeneurs would make a killing through Uber Eats or Door Dash should this suddenly pop up), but for those craving the best pork/beef ribs (and chicken too) that House of Q, Prairie Smoke, Gator, Grizzy, and Boss Hog are cooking up–nothing’s gonna smoke ’em out now. The operative word should be stop, but will Two Hungry Blokes be there?

We’re considering it. Ed prefers the pricier bbq beef offerings. After developing his own secret sauce, crisping and smoking technique on his home bbq, he doesn’t have to worry year-round and he usually visits when he doesn’t want to cook. Don is undecided. If all this meat is too much, this event is promising to offer a few vegan offerings. People can simply come enjoy the music (schedule is online here) and sample from the food trucks and other vendors (list available here).

The prices are reasonable, averaging $30 for a meal. Its best to have enough cash on you before making your way here. Those out-of-towners who are already here will no doubt want to check this local event out, and as for newcomers, the border is still closed to non-essential traffic. The hope for the future is that Clipper Vacations can resume their foodie travel packages in a few years time. 

Even as some people are used to tapping credit or debit cards because of the pandemic, this event is still cash only and won’t change. The organizers are asking that attendees to bring their own towelettes and mask up (a realistic request when concerning the times we’re living in) when not sitting down and consuming those delectable ribs. Bibs are certainly required, and gloves? Ed advises that it’s best to since those shared washing stations can run out of water fast.

This event’s full disclosure can be read here.