Oshawa’s Lakeview Park will once again host Durham Region’s longest-running rib festival August 14-16, 2026. The Oshawa Rotary Ribfest is coming back after a one-year pause, with organizers confirming the return earlier this spring.
The festival, run by the Rotary Club of Oshawa, had been cancelled for 2025. At the time, organizers pointed to rising costs, economic pressures, and sponsorship gaps for the difficult decision. The comeback means residents can again look forward to free admission, live music, food vendors, a free Kids Zone sponsored by OPG, the popular wheelbarrow draw, and a dunk tank with local personalities.
Since starting in 2002, the Ribfest has raised more than $1 million for local charities and typically draws 30,000 to 50,000 visitors each summer. The 2024 event saw roughly 50,000 people attend. The City of Oshawa has supported the festival, including approving a $30,000 Community Grant for in-kind services.
Visitors this year should note that paid parking at Lakeview Park started May 15, 2026, and will be in effect during the festival. For more details on schedules and participating vendors, check the official website.
