The Rotary Club of Oshawa has announced that the annual Oshawa Ribfest will return to Lakeview Park from August 14 to August 16, 2026. As the longest-running festival of its kind in the Durham Region, the event continues its tradition of offering free admission while raising funds for local and international charitable causes.
Visitors to the festival can explore an updated lineup of 12 food vendors, including returning crowd favourite Beaver Tails. New additions to the food selection this year include Grill n Thrill Kabob, Krazee Foods, and Ontario Corn Roasters. A full map detailing booth placements throughout Lakeview Park is available for attendees to view online at the Oshawa Ribfest website.
Families can visit the free Kids Zone, which features face painting by Pika Pika Parties and bouncy castles provided by King of The Castle. These activities are sponsored by Ontario Power Generation. The festival grounds will be open Friday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Since its inception in 2002, the event has raised more than $1 million for charity. The festival relies on the support of more than 250 volunteers each year to manage the crowds, which typically range between 30,000 and 50,000 people. While entry to the park is free, the organizers welcome donations at the gates to support their ongoing charitable work.
