COMING SOON TO A STOMACH NEAR YOU!
– FALL 2026 –
Bolingbrook, IL
Fueled by Beef, Pork, Chicken and Driven by Purpose.
Our mission is simple: to provide scholarships and continued support to non-traditional students in the Valley View community.
OUR HISTORY
Built by community members and powered by volunteers, Bolingbrook Rib Fest is more than an event. It’s a platform for creativity, service, and shared experiences. Each year, we continue to grow with one goal in mind: to create an inclusive, fun, and unforgettable festival that gives back to the community that makes it possible.
The smoke may rise for a weekend, but the impact lasts all year.
OUR PLAN
By combining great food, local talent, and strong organization, we aim to establish Bolingbrook Rib Fest as a must-attend annual event, one that supports small businesses, inspires young people, and brings neighbors together around the grill.
Big picture thinking. Local heart. Long-term impact.
OUR FUTURE
The future of Bolingbrook Rib Fest is about growth with purpose. As the festival continues to evolve, our vision is to expand programming, increase community partnerships, and create even more opportunities for small businesses, creatives, and young people.
We plan to grow the festival’s reach while preserving what makes it special—authentic BBQ, local talent, and a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. From enhanced competitions and educational experiences to stronger nonprofit impact and youth involvement, our goal is to build something that lasts.
MULTIPLE WAYS TO PARTICIPATE
Professional Grill Masters
FOOD TRUCKS AND RESTAURANTS DIVISION
This division is reserved for seasoned professionals who bring the heat for a living.
Food trucks, restaurants, and established BBQ brands are invited to showcase their skills, signature flavors, and crowd-favorite creations.
From competition-level technique to high-volume execution, this category highlights mastery, consistency, and creativity at the highest level. It’s your chance to represent your brand, connect with new fans, and prove why your BBQ stands above the rest.
Come ready to serve, impress, and own the pit.
Amateur and Weekend BBQ Enthusiast
SINGLE GRILL &
PELLET SMOKERS
This category is for backyard pitmasters who grill for the love of it.
If you fire up the grill or pellet smoker on weekends, family gatherings, or just because the weather says so, this is your lane.
Whether you’re perfecting ribs, experimenting with rubs, or learning the art of low-and-slow, this division celebrates passion over perfection. No competition circuit experience required. Just good smoke, good food, and good energy.
Bring your best flavors, share your BBQ pride, and show the crowd what weekend greatness tastes like.
High School and College Students
VOLUNTEERS
Bolingbrook Rib Fest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
High school and college students are welcome to volunteer and earn community service hours toward graduation. Volunteers can use their skills and talents in a variety of roles before, during, and after the event. Opportunities include Event Support, Fundraising, Graphic and Web Design, Audio/Video, Grant Writing, and more.
