When you think of the small town of Caseville, located in the idyllic Western Thumb Area of Michigan, you might be hard-pressed to believe it hosts an event as sizzling and vivacious as Ribstock. Yet, it’s true. This three-day festival, steeped in the smoky aroma of barbecued ribs and the lively strains of country music, captures a sense of community and celebration that rivals the best summer gatherings.

Friday, June 23: A Sizzling Start to Ribstock

The 15th Ribstock kicks off early at 9 am with the 11th Annual Amateur Rib Cook-Off at the Caseville County Park. The air is thick with anticipation – and the delicious aroma of ribs. Online registration means you can throw your spatula in the ring and compete for the juicy cash prizes that await the top three places.

Ribs - Caseville Ribstock — Ribs on the Grill – Yum!

At noon, the RibStock kick-off officially begins. Head to your favorite local establishment and grab a bite of the smoky, succulent ribs that are the festival’s signature dish. By 5 pm, if you’re still hankering for more, there are RIBS UNDER the TENT at the park.

At the amphitheater, it’s not all about gastronomic delights. The Caseville Class of 2023 serves up concessions from 6 pm, but the real draw is the evening’s entertainment. The Country Music Festival kicks off with Movin’ On at 7 pm. But before that, and again at 8:15 pm, you can strut your stuff with line dancing lessons from Judy Fleming.

As night falls, another treat awaits: the RibStock Amateur Winner is announced. Afterwards, you can take a leisurely moonlit stroll down Main Street, where the shops stay open until 8 pm.

Saturday, June 24: A Day of Waves, Cornhole, and Country Music

Day two ushers in fresh excitement. Starting at 10 am, there’s a Stand Up Paddleboard & Kayak lesson and session at Caseville Beach, courtesy of Thumbs Up Kiteboarding.

Meanwhile, back in town, the Market On Main springs to life from 11 am to 3 pm at the Caseville Memorial Park, offering an array of local crafts, food, and trinkets.

At noon, the Caseville County Park becomes a battleground for the 4th Annual Blue Collar Cornhole Tournament. Bring your A-game and compete for glory in the competitive or social divisions. The stakes are as high as the ribs are smoky.

Music takes the center stage in the evening again, with line dancing lessons, the Country Music Festival featuring Shiatown, and Family Tradition.

Finally, it’s the moment everyone’s been waiting for: the announcement of the RibStock Best Ribs Winners. This evening, Caseville doesn’t just sleep – it smokes!

Sunday June 25: The Final Helping

Sunday starts with another Stand Up Paddleboard & Kayak Lesson and Session. For those with a competitive edge, the 15th Annual RibStock Golf Outing offers a chance to show off your swing at the Caseville Golf Course.

If your stomach’s rumbling, make your way to the park for Rib Dinners – the last chance for ribs under the tent. And as you savor the flavors, know that your meal also contributes to a good cause: a Caseville Fireworks fundraiser.

Grab Your Ribstock Swag

To remember the unforgettable experiences Ribstock offers, make sure to grab your 2023 Caseville Country Ribstock Passes for $15.00 each, and the t-shirts, a steal at $20.00. They’re available at Caseville Hardware, the Caseville Chamber Office, and the Rib Tent.

So there you have it – a culinary festival that’s about more than just ribs. It’s a testament to the spirit of Caseville, a celebration of community, and a chance to make some finger-licking good memories. So come on down, dig in, and let the good times roll – or should I say, “roast”?

Ribstock – The Unofficial Start of Summer in Caseville

Officially summer starts with the summer solstice on June 21st. Caseville Ribstock allows the folks and visitors in Caseville to welcome the start of the summer with a huge rib cook-off starting in late June. It’s a huge BBQ and country music festival that draws smoked rib and brisket fans from all over the state. Live entertainment begins at 7 pm Friday night and Saturday with blues and country acts from all over Michigan. The RibStock Cook-Off winner will be announced between acts. The wonderful smell of BBQ cooking over hardwood hangs over town during the event. Back in 2018 over 20,000 ribs were sold.

Collectible Buttons and Passports

Festival buttons are available to allow entrance to all six country performers as well as other events throughout the weekend. The best practice is to bring your own blanket and chairs and set up a spat for evening viewing. All seating is general admission with the button. Music is in the Caseville County Park Amphitheater.