Over the past decade, Erie has undergone a culinary transformation, largely thanks to pioneers like Tim Grow. His innovative approach to street food not only changed how locals viewed mobile dining but also inspired a vibrant food truck culture. This year, Erie celebrates its love for barbecue with the Wild Rib Cookoff and Music Festival, featuring eight top rib vendors competing for titles such as "Best Ribs" and "Best Sauce." Alongside this savory competition, attendees enjoy live music performances spanning genres from country to rock, creating an unforgettable weekend experience.
The festival showcases both local talent and national favorites, drawing crowds eager to savor ribs while enjoying craft beverages and family-friendly activities. Visitors are encouraged to participate by voting for their favorite dishes, making the event interactive and engaging. Through these events, Erie continues to build a reputation as a hub for exceptional food experiences intertwined with lively entertainment.
A Decade of Barbecue Innovation
Tim Grow's journey into the world of food trucks marked a turning point in Erie's culinary landscape. Faced with skepticism from banks unwilling to fund unconventional ideas, Grow persevered, introducing Que Abides—a food truck that became synonymous with quality and creativity. Over ten years, his vision transformed Erie’s street food scene, setting trends others followed. Today, Grow operates a successful restaurant alongside his original food truck, proving the viability of mobile dining in smaller cities.
Grow's impact extends beyond business success; he championed a movement that redefined accessibility to gourmet meals. By combining affordability with high-quality ingredients, he demonstrated that delicious food doesn’t have to come at premium prices. His perseverance inspired other entrepreneurs to experiment within the food truck industry, contributing to Erie's thriving gastronomic diversity. As one of the first trailblazers, Grow remains a respected figure whose influence is evident throughout Erie's current food scene.
Rib Fest Extravaganza: A Weekend of Smoke and Sound
This year’s Wild Rib Cookoff offers more than just great barbecue—it promises an immersive experience filled with flavor, fun, and fantastic tunes. Eight renowned rib vendors gather to compete for prestigious awards judged through a blind process focusing on appearance, taste, texture, and sauce quality. Attendees become part of the action by casting votes for their favorites, adding excitement to the competitive spirit of the event.
From May 28th to 31st, Perry Square transforms into a sensory paradise where aromas of grilled meats mingle with melodies from diverse musical acts. Each evening features unique performances ranging from soulful country sounds to electrifying rock rhythms. Families can explore a dedicated kids’ zone while adults indulge in craft beers, wines, spirits, and moonshine—all perfectly paired with tender ribs. With free admission and countless attractions, the Wild Rib Cookoff exemplifies Erie’s commitment to delivering memorable community celebrations centered around food and fellowship.