The celebration of all things good barbeque and all things good music has been a city-wide favorite since it first launched twenty-three years ago. What began as a small Barbeque Fest (its original name) has grown each year and attracts music lovers and barbeque aficionados from all over the Southeast and beyond. Now over 25,000 visitors come to enjoy the fun over the Festival weekend. But if you still need convincing, we’ve collected all the essential info that you need to know to make the most of Rhythm & Ribs 2018.
THE BASICS
Rhythm & Ribs 2018 will take place April 6-8 at Francis Field in downtown St. Augustine. Friday, April 6, the festival will open at 5pm and close at 10pm. Saturday’s hours are 11am-10pm. Sunday’s hours are 11am-6pm. On Friday and Saturday, admission is $10 for adults and free for kids 15 and under. On Sunday, admission is $5 for adults and free for kids 15 and under.
WHAT TO EXPECT
As the name of the festival indicates, you can expect to find a lot of delicious food and amazing music within the gates. On the grounds will be award-winning barbeque from five regional and national BBQ champions as well as continuous live music all weekend long. In addition to this entertainment, the festival will feature local vendors and children’s games, rides, and activities.
This year, the Rhythm & Ribs headliners will be The Record Company and the Devon Allman Project, but you can rest assured that all of the performers will arrive ready to get your head rocking and your toes tapping. You can find out more about the headlining acts by visiting here.
FRIDAY, APRIL 6
- Milltown Road Band, 5:30-7:30pm
- Devon Allman Project with special guest Duane Betts, 8-10pm
SATURDAY, MARCH 7
- Grapes of Roth, 12-1:30pm
- Grimes Alley, 2-3:30pm
- Go Get Gone, 4-5:30pm
- Firewater Tent Revival, 6-7:30pm
- The Record Company, 8-9:30pm
SUNDAY, MARCH 8
- Corbitt Brothers, 12-2pm
- The Lee Boys, 2:30-4:30pm
The cornerstone of this beloved festival is barbeque, so each barbeque vendor is award-winning and crowd-pleasing. This year, enjoy Johnsons BBQ from Virginia, Porky n Beans from Florida, Carolina Rib King from South Carolina, Desperados BBQ from Ohio, and Camp 31 BBQ from Alabama. In addition to the barbeque, you’ll find cheese curds, pretzels, sweet corn, SnoBalls, and more.
Parking for anything in St. Augustine is a hassle, so here’s the low-down on the easiest way to get out of your car and enjoy the fun. Use the free parking and free shuttle provided by the city on Saturday only. The shuttle will run from 11am to 11pm with pickups every 20-25 minutes. You can also follow signs to parking lots located around the festival field. Parking is $10 all day. Parking is also available in the parking garage next to the festival field. All-day parking is $15.
FINE PRINT
And finally, just a few tidbits that might be helpful before you head out. Valid ID required for the purchase of alcohol and guests wishing to consume alcohol must first visit Legal Drinking Age Verification Centers located at each gate. There are no coolers, no dogs, and no pets allowed at the festival, but lawn chairs and blankets are permitted.
To find more information on the Rhythm & Ribs Festival, visit www.rhythmandribs.net. Images via the website.
