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CW's Blues and Rib Fest
(by Linda Dillman - July 13, 2010)
Blues music drifting through the air, coupled with the aroma of charcoal grilled ribs, is a combination organizers of Canal Winchester's Blues and Rib Fest hope people cannot resist.
Main Street Canal Winchester is hosting the first annual festival Aug. 6 and 7 in the heart of the village. The event was originally held in downtown Pickerington, but outgrew its home of a dozen years and moved to Canal Winchester.
"The organizers weren't able to work out an alternative site with Pickerington, which resulted in them coming to us," said the Main Street organization's director, Bruce Jarvis. "It is now in a much larger location and has the potential to grow even bigger."
The two day, free event features food vendors and a stage on South High Street between the intersection of High and Waterloo streets and Columbus Street, in addition to another stage at Stradley Place, where soloists and duos will perform. A beer garden with controlled access will be housed in the grassy area behind the park and operated by Shade on the Canal. The restaurant is donating the proceeds from the venue to Main Street Canal Winchester and Canal Winchester Human Services.
Nine artists from the surrounding area will present their work during the festival, alongside the artistry of 17 blues acts from throughout Ohio.
"There is an art aspect to the Rib Fest and we want to showcase our local artists," continued Jarvis. "We have something for everyone and for all ages. We even have a children's area with bouncing houses, face painting, and balloon sculptures."
Jarvis said nine "ribbers" will compete for first, second, and third Place trophies-including the first place winner from the 2009 festival-with the winners picked by a judge's panel. There is also a People's Choice Award that is selected through a ballot system.
"We also have a lot of non-rib options for diners," said Jarvis.
With only 15 minutes between acts, Jarvis promises music will fill the air as festival goers enjoy great food from 5-11 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 6, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 7. There are limited seating and dining areas, so Jarvis suggests people bring their own seating, if possible.
Outside coolers, food, or beverages are prohibited within the festival area, as are pets, so please leave Fido at home.
"This is our first year and we have had a great response from the community," Jarvis said. "We first heard about this in January, so this has come together in a short time, but it's going to be great right out of the box. Pickerington was a one-day festival and drew approximately 13,000 people. We're hoping for similar or better results."
For information and a full schedule of musical acts and times, visit www.bluesandribfest.com or contact Jarvis at (614) 270-5053.
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