Countdown to Ribfest concluding in Naperville

Rib vendors rolled into town Tuesday. Ribs were delivered Wednesday morning. And the countdown is on.

The 27th annual Ribfest in Naperville opens at noon Thursday in Knoch Park at Martin Avenue and West Street and runs from noon to 10 p.m. each day until Sunday.

With decorative balloons inflated, sponsor tents pitched, stages set up and signs posted, organizers from the Naperville Exchange Club were checking Internet hot-spots and conducting final setup Wednesday.

The 12 ribbers who give the fest its name - and its favorite food - were putting the finishing touches on their cooking areas and displays of banners boasting "best ribs" or "No. 1 sauce" from various contests.

"It's setting up the grills and getting everything running," Ribfest spokesman Don Emery said.

Admission to the fest is $10 between noon and 3 p, m. each day for folks 12 and older. The price rises to $15 after 3 p.m.

Opening day Thursday will feature a Radio Disney kids show from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on the south stage and the BoDeans performing at 8:30 p.m. on the main stage, among other performances.

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