There will be lots of great food and music in downtown Detroit as the 18th annual Ribs and R&B Music Festival is presented Aug. 9-11 in Hart Plaza. The event was formerly known as the Ribs ‘n’ Soul Festival.
“Ribbers from across the United States will make Detroit the epicenter of the barbecue world,” said Johnnie Washington, producer of the event. “This is Detroit’s most anticipated event of the summer.”
On Sunday, Aug. 11, chefs will smoke, grill and season ribs to perfection during the Rib Cook Off. This year, 15 grillers will compete for the Best Ribs and Best Sauce titles. Each winner will receive a trophy and bragging rights.
Musical headliners for the festival are LOOSE ENDS, THE MARY JANE GIRLS, and the ENCHANTMENTS. Tributes to Bobby Rodger of the Miracles and Rick James will be among the more than 30 acts performing during the weekend.
At 10 a.m. Sunday, the El bethel Church with Pastor Glass will present a service followed by a Gospel Showcase starring “Gospel Divas” until 3 p.m. R&B and jazz will be performed from 4 p.m. until midnight on two stages. The event also will feature a Health Expo, an art fair, an African village, a Business Expo and Kid’s Zone. Preferred seating and VIP tickets are available for both Saturday and Sunday shows.
“We work hard to provide our guests with exceptional entertainment and an experience for the entire family,” said Washington. “We expect this year’s festival to draw more than 250,000 people over the weekend.”
For vendor information and how to become an Ambassador sponsor call 1-800-794-7503 or email
Johnnie Washington at jwash906@sbcglobal.net or visit www.ribsrnbjazzfest.com
The event is free Friday, Saturday and until 2 p.m. Sunday. A $3 admission will be charged after 2 p.m. on Sunday. Festival hours are 11 a.m. to midnight each day.
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