From staff reports

The 20th anniversary of RibFest kicks off today, June 1, with eight rib vendors and music for three days.

This year’s food lineup at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds includes Big Rig BBQ of Sioux Falls and Heck’s Dakota Style Barbecue of Vermillion. The rest of “ribber row” includes the traveling teams of Desperado’s, Porky-N-Beans, Johnson’s, Aussom Aussie, Just North of Memphis and Rasta Joe’s.

They will compete for the People’s Choice Award, as well as first, second or third place in the Critics Choice category. Winners will receive a cash award, trophy and bragging rights as they head to the next competition down the road.

RibFest goers can buy food from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. At lunch, each order comes with a free side. The music starts about 6 p.m.

Tonight’s performers provide a Throwback Thursday vibe. DNR will be the opening act for regional favorites Kory & the Fireflies and The Johnny Holm Band. As a thank-you for the community’s support for two decades, admission after 4 p.m. today is $5.

Admission is free before 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday. After that, tickets are $15. Kids 12 and younger get in free. Thanks to Grand Falls Casino Resort, all military members and veterans plus one guest get in free with an ID.

The bands Friday are 35th & Taylor, Marcy Playground, Dishwalla and Fuel. Country singer Kip Moore headlines Saturday, joined by Maiden Dixie, Chris Hawkey and Tim Montana & The Shrednecks.

KidzFest at RibFest, sponsored by Sanford Children’s Hospital, will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday for free. Phil Baker will perform and other activities include games, inflatables, arts and crafts, the Zoomobile from the Great Plains Zoo, and visitors from local law enforcement and fire-rescue agencies.

RibFest is produced by SMG, Sioux Empire Fair Board and Pepper Entertainment. It is sponsored by Campbell Supply.