Plenty of music on tap at Naperville's Ribfest
Naperville's Ribfest may be known for its title food but the bands it draws to serenade rib-eaters have become just as much of a staple.
Organizers say the lineup for this weekend's festival will be a crowd pleaser and they're offering a new party deck to catch all the action although there are a few new rules as well.
"Despite the economic conditions we've had it's one of our better or equal lineups ... so we're excited to have the names we've gotten this year," Chairman Dave Harrington said.
Heart will perform on the Miller Lite main stage at 8:30 p.m. today to kick things off. Ann and Nancy Wilson, known for hits like "Barracuda," drew a sold-out crowd when they appeared in 2007 and will be heading into the studio this year to record their 14th album.
Country star Sara Evans headlines the main stage at 8:45 p.m. Friday while progressive rocker Todd Rundgren will play at 5:30 p.m. Saturday.
Closing out the fest will be Huey Lewis and the News. The Grammy-winners known for hits like "Heart of Rock and Roll" are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year and will take the stage at 8:30 p.m. Sunday.
Meanwhile the U.S. Cellular Stage will have its own share of big-name musicians throughout the weekend with Blue Oyster Cult, North Mississippi All-Stars, WAR and Herman's Hermits with Peter Noone.
Both stages also have a variety of performers throughout the daytime as well.
The Naperville Exchange Club is implementing a new rule this year, though - concert-goers will not be allowed to set up blankets and chairs in front of the main stage. Organizers say it is a common policy at other concerts and they hope it will alleviate some of the overcrowding issues and provide more room for everyone who wants to see the shows.
Also new this year, visitors 21 and older who want VIP treatment while watching their favorite performer on the main stage can purchase a $100 ticket for the party deck. These ticket holders will get guaranteed admission, an elevated view, barbecue from participating vendors from 5 to 8 p.m., all beer wine and soda from 5 to 9:30 p.m. and dedicated restrooms just for party deck attendees.
Roughly 125 party deck tickets are available for each night and will be sold at the south entrance ticket tent.
Harrington said based on the pre-sale for the party deck tickets, it appears to be an attractive option.
"It's been popular because people want tickets for a specific night, especially people traveling from out of town ... plus it's a great view of the main stage," he said.