Downtown Willoughby Rib Burn Off

In its ninth year, The Elk & Elk - DTW Rib Burn Off, is the biggest and most anticipated event to take place in Willoughby.

Drawing thousands of people from all over Northeast Ohio, this two-day event is going to rock this town again and be even better than last year’s record-breaking success! Erie Street will be closed to all traffic for both days. And this year we are expanding to three stages featuring live local and national bands, plus vendors. Look for beer & craft cocktails on Erie Street, and, of course, ribs from participating downtown Willoughby restaurants & national vendors.

Saturday, May 16th Noon - 10pm • Sunday, May 17th Noon - 8pm

Is there an admission fee to get into Rib Burn Off?

No, admission to Rib Burn Off is FREE!

Where do I park?

Parking is located at Todd Field. This can be accessed from Mentor Avenue. Please note that Erie Street will be closed so there is no access from Glenn Avenue.

Is the event kid-friendly and are there activities for kids?

Yes! This is a family-friendly event so we encourage you to bring the young and mature. There will be activities for all ages throughout the festival.

Are pets allowed?

Rib Burn Off draws tens of thousands of people each day. This can be an intimidating environment for a pet, even the most well-trained. So although pets are not banned from the festival, it may not be the best place for them.

How do I pay for food and drinks?

There will be a variety of food vendors throughout the festival both Saturday and Sunday. Each of these vendors will take payment at their respective booth. For drinks, there will be two yellow ticket tents on Erie Street selling drink tickets. These can be used for beer, cocktails, pop and water throughout the festival. Drink Tickets will be sold until 9pm on Saturday night and 7pm on Sunday night. Last call will be 9:30pm on Saturday and 7:30pm on Sunday.

Are credit cards accepted for drink tickets?

Cash is the preferred payment for drink tickets. ATMs will be available at each of the two yellow ticket tents.

Are outside food and drinks allowed?

No, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside of Rib Burn Off, this includes purchases from the local restaurants and bars places of regular business (not their booths at Rib Burn Off). Additionally, food and drinks from Rib Burn Off may not be taken into the local businesses in Downtown Willoughby.

Do I need a ticket to see the concerts?

No, you can enjoy the more than 20 bands on three stages all for FREE.

Will the stores along Erie Street still be open for business during Rib Burn Off?

Most, if not all, of the businesses will keep regular business hours throughout the weekend. We encourage you to contact the local business to ensure they will be open. Many of the restaurants will also have booths at Rib Burn Off.

Will Rib Burn Off be cancelled or postponed if it rains?