Rib Fest Kunes Cart Convo

What do you get when you mix smoky BBQ, live music, and a golf cart named Pork Patrol? You get the ultimate ride-along at the 9th Annual Elkhorn Ribfest—courtesy of Megan Swaney and Melody Judge from the Walworth County Fairgrounds. This edition of Kunes Cart Convos dives deep into the mouthwatering madness of Rib Row, the rhythm of live bands, and the small-town charm that makes Ribfest a summer staple.

Hop in and buckle up—literally—as Megan and Melody kick off opening day cruising Rib Row. With the scent of slow-cooked ribs in the air and a clear blue sky above, Pork Patrol sets off on a flavor-packed journey past some of the top pitmasters in the country.

From Johnson’s Barbecue (don’t forget to say hi to Mr. Johnson!) to fan favorites like Cowboys Barbecue and Rib Company, Salt Creek BBQ, and the international flair of Awesome Aussie, the festival is a mecca for rib-lovers. Melody dishes out hot takes like her love of dry rubs (because “you gotta add your own sauce”) while Megan teases the saucier side of things with a pour-heavy preference.

And let’s not forget Getter Smoked, the reigning grand champs returning with hopes of repeating their victory, or newcomers like Slow Motion Barbecue, eager to impress hungry festival-goers.

Ribfest isn't just about ribs—though let’s be honest, it mostly is. Megan and Melody rave about the full plate of southern-inspired sides and culinary surprises:

• Creamy mac & cheese (a future competition category, perhaps?)
• Collard greens packed with flavor
• Cornbread so rich it should have its own zip code
• And the unexpected showstopper: Peach Bread Pudding from Just North of Memphis

The best part? You can vote for your favorites! From People's Choice to Kids’ Choice, guests get to crown the top BBQ joints of the fest. Voting stations are located where Megan picked up Melody, so grab a tee, cast a ballot, and surrender to the sauce.

What’s a rib-filled weekend without a soundtrack? Ribfest rocks with over 25 bands performing across two stages: the iconic Big Tent and the shady and serene Peggy’s Park Stage.

Here’s a taste of the lineup:

• The Hype brings the energy on opening night.
• Bella Cain takes over the main stage Friday night—always a crowd-pleaser.
• Rival 5, a rising rock group from Minnesota, turns up the volume Saturday.
• The soulful sounds of Nathan Chester’s Motown Revival close things out on Sunday.

Bring a lawn chair, chill under the trees, and let the music and BBQ vibes wash over you.

Elkhorn Ribfest goes beyond music and meat—it’s a celebration of community. From bouncy houses to goldfish games and carnival rides like the Tilt-A-Whirl and the Ferris wheel, kids of all ages (and adults who are kids at heart) will find something to smile about.

Wristbands are only $35 for unlimited fun, or you can go old-school with tickets at $1.25 each.

Even better? Ribfest is run with heart. Many of the stands, including the bars and lemonade booths, are staffed by volunteers from organizations like the VFW, Elkhorn Booster Club, and others across Walworth County. Proceeds support these local groups as well as the Fairgrounds’ mission for agricultural education. It’s community-powered fun with a purpose.

And of course, it wouldn’t be a Kunes Cart Convo without checking out the sweet rides. Megan and Melody scoped out:

• Travel trailers for road trip goals
• Tough trucks to tow them
• Sleek convertibles perfect for summer
• Melody’s personal fave: a Chevy black truck ready to steal the show

With something for every season and every style, Kunes Auto Group and RV Truck Center had a solid presence at the fest, making sure guests not only eat well—but ride in style.

Before Megan and Melody dig into their first rib (from Getter Smoked, of course), they leave us with some sizzling advice:

• Bring friends & sample together – Try a little bit from every pitmaster without bursting your stomach.
• Vote for your favorites – Support the ones who bring the BBQ heat.
• Stay all day – With free admission, free parking, and entertainment galore, there’s no reason to rush.

As the duo dips, pours, and toasts their saucy rib bites in Pork Patrol, it’s clear: Ribfest 2025 is a feast for the senses and a celebration of everything we love—family, flavor, fun, and a little friendly competition.

So come hungry, stay late, and as Megan and Melody remind us with full hearts (and full bellies): “Surrender to the sauce.”