Sizzling temperatures couldn’t stop crowds of hungry pitmaster fans from flocking downtown for the two-day Mankato Ribfest event on August 7–8.
With ongoing construction at its usual home at Vetter Stone Amphitheater, this year’s festival relocated to the Civic Center Plaza on Hickory Street—a move that brought the event full circle back to one of its original historic sites. Despite a minor heat wave over the weekend, lines stretched down the block for a star-studded lineup of regional eats, including Boon’s BBQ, Papa Pickett’s BBQ, Kelm BBQ, Spotty Biggs BBQ, S&B Smoked Meats, and Smokin’ Lady BBQ.
Among the culinary highlights was Smokin’ Lady BBQ’s adventurous “Smoke Show” sandwich, featuring tender brisket, jalapeños, bacon jam, and crispy onions served between two glazed donuts. This reporter at the Journal considered ordering the deliciously sinful sandwich, a nap and possible medical attention would be needed shortly after consumption. Our order centered around the staples of a backyard cookout: 1/3 rack of baby back ribs, creamy white cheddar mac-n-cheese, and a root beer. Glossing over the shameless sauce ring around the lips by meal’s end, not a morsel spared. Thanks for the tasty meal, Smokin’ Lady.
Attendees also cooled down with classic summer treats like slushies, ice cream, and mini donuts between trips to the smokehouses. At the end of the competition, Kelm BBQ earned the award for Best Use of BBQ, while Third Street Tavern took home top honors for Best BBQ.
Beyond the food, community groups added interactive educational experiences to the festivities. The Mankato Police Department hosted a station featuring a belt-driven impact simulator that let kids safely experience the sensation of a 20 mph head-on collision. Though eager to participate, the sudden drop into a controlled crash had youth bracing for a bump, but smiling at the end, complete with congratulatory fist bumps from officers after each demonstration. They also offered “drunk goggles” simulations to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving.
Capping off the event, the main stage tucked into the Civic Center parking lot hosted high-energy cover band Viva Knievel as the festival’s final musical act. Dressed in signature stunt-suit apparel, the 10-persono ensemble—including two saxophones, one trumpet, piano keys, and several percussion instruments—opened with a dramatic rendition of “Teenage Wasteland” before launching into an energetic set of funk, soul, and rock classics that kept the crowd on their feet through the summer night.
Not even a location change could put out the fire that fuels Rib Fest. The Civic Center may have been a smaller venue compared to Vetter Stone, but the closer quarters kept attendees within arm’s reach of delicious cue, community spirit, and heart-pounding live performances.
