As many as 30,000 people are expected to eat their hearts out at Ribfest this weekend.
A selection of out-of-town ribbers once again fire up the grill at Tecumseh Park.
Organizer Doug Hillier says the sounds of live entertainment and the lingering smell of barbeque will set the scene.
"When you put on a party in your house, everybody ends up in the kitchen," says Hillier. "This location allows me to create that kind of kitchen atmosphere, where the music is right there beside the dining area, and the rides are kind of like the backyard. We've created a house party here."
The party kicks off for the lunch crowd, with booths officially opening for business at 11am, Friday.
Desserts, lemonade stands, and a variety of cultural cuisines will also be available, but Hillier warns it's not what people come for.
With the number of people turning out to feast on ribs climbing every year, Hillier has this one piece of advice -- come early.
"Last year, I'd like to remind people, we ran out of meat," he says. "We will still have chicken and pulled pork, but if you really want your ribs [come early]...We just don't want anyone to be disappointed."
Voting for the People's Choice Award opens online July 8, and closes when the cookout wraps up on Sunday.
Hillier says he looks forward to hosting the event every year at Tecumseh Park.
"When people ask me, 'What is your favourite ribfest?' I tell them it's Chatham," says Hillier. "It seems like here, the family atmosphere is so well enjoyed."