Set up underway at Kamloops Rib Fest (image credit - CFJC Today)

By Michael Reeve

BIG WEEKEND

Ribfest and Hot Nite set to take over downtown Kamloops this weekend

Aug 7, 2025 | 4:20 PM

KAMLOOPS — One of the biggest weekends of the year in Kamloops is set to invade the downtown core with two marquee events.

It’s a staple of summer in Kamloops, as the smell of barbecue will soon fill the air around downtown Kamloops as Rotary Ribfest kicks off Friday (Aug. 8) at Riverside Park.

“They are professional ribbers. These guys compete right across Canada and some even into the US,” said organizer Bryce Herman. “They are lighthearted in the jousting that they do when they are competing but at the end of the day, it is something for each of them. We know they love to put up the hardware and proudly present that they were people’s choice.”

In addition to the ribs, chicken, brisket and more, Ribfest organizers have expanded their horizons to ensure everybody can enjoy the fun.

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“What we are trying to do is actually fill that void,” added Herman. “People come in and say, ‘I don’t eat as much red meat,’ or ‘I don’t do this,’ and there is chicken available and those kinds of things. But for those of you who are looking for a vegetarian option, well Indian street food is a great option for you there.”

As Riverside Park fills up this weekend, so, too, will the streets of Kamloops, as people flow toward Victoria Street for the 31st annual Hot Nite in the City show and shine.

“Well, we started at one block and we went to three and that was an evening show,” said longtime organizer Ron Popove. “And then we went from First (Avenue) to Third, a day show. And then we got permission from the city to go up to Sixth.”

For 31 years, Hot Nite in the City has given Kamloops car enthusiasts a chance to display their pride and joy, and for rib lovers to walk off some calories Saturday afternoon.

“We have 503 (cars) registered right now,” stated Popove. “And [Friday] and Saturday we will have all the other people come in [saying], ‘We want to be part of the car show.’ Last year we had 100 cars come in on Saturday and Sunday.”

Much like Popove with Hot Nite after 25 years, Rotary is set to pass the torch after 13 years at the helm of the Kamloops Ribfest.

“We realize that is probably one of the most signature events that the city has,” said Herman. “We want to see this continue and you are absolutely right, we want to be able to hand that baton on to the next organization that is going to do this.”

“We have done it for 13 years — and we’re proud of those 13 years. We really believe we’ve done a great job, so when we hand that baton, we think the trajectory will be nothing but straight up.”