The first-ever Wood Buffalo RibFest is set to get underway at Snye Point Park.

Presented by Syncrude, it’s the biggest in North America – featuring world-class competition, and southern style meat cooked low and slow.

The event will feature a beer garden, kids’ zone, entertainment and so much more.

Andrew Reinhardt is owner and operator of Billy’s BBQ – out of Michigan – and he tells Mix News attendees can expect fall off the bone cherry wood recipes.

“Not only does cherry wood lead to great taste and smoky flavour, but it’s just such a beautiful colour. You will see them on the grill, it’s like a beautiful cherry-red and there’s a smoke ring in it. People will enjoy it. And the temperature is important. The lower you cook, the more tender they’ll be.”

The weekend features big-name musical guests such as Canadian classic rockers Trooper and Halifax-based Wintersleep.

Event organizer Dennis Nephim says they wanted the most authentic RibFest experience possible.

“I looked at other rib fests around Alberta, Canada and North America and they all have somewhat of a musical component. So, we called up Trooper and called up Wintersleep and a few other big acts and asked if they wanted to play Fort McMurray. They said they’d love to and so, here we are.”

All proceeds from the event go right back into the community.

Reinhardt notes they’re excited to be involved with Fort McMurray’s first-ever rib fest experience.

“You’d be amazed at how much meat we’ve served in our life so; it’s just going to be a great time. The bands will add to the atmosphere and it’s also great to know that all the money will go to local charities. To give back to Fort McMurray is super important.”

Ribfest kicks off Friday at 11 a.m. and runs all weekend long.