The Great Midwest Rib Fest

The Great Midwest Rib Fest brings three days of barbecue, free outdoor concerts, and competition to Mystic Lake Casino Hotel in Prior Lake. Admission is free and the event is all ages.

Dates and hours

• Thursday, June 25: 4 to 10 p.m.
• Friday, June 26: 4 to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, June 27: 1 to 10 p.m.

Free concerts

• Thursday, June 25: Old Crow Medicine Show with Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors
• Friday, June 26: Gabby Barrett and Parmalee
• Saturday, June 27: Rick Springfield with The Suburbs

Barbecue and the rib eating championship

Award-winning pitmasters compete for more than $19,000 in cash prizes. The World Rib Eating Championship takes place Saturday, June 27 at 4 p.m., when competitive eaters take on the 13.76-pound world record set in 12 minutes. Beverage tents and food vendors round things out, including Kernel’s Sweet Corn, Original Hockey Mom Brownies, and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Parking and getting there

The festival grounds are a short walk from Mystic Lake Casino Hotel. A free shuttle runs from the overflow parking lot near Dakotah Sport and Fitness.

Good to know

• Free admission, all ages. Guests under 18 need a parent or guardian with them at all times.
• The event runs rain or shine.
• No outside food or drinks, coolers, chairs, blankets, umbrellas, or pets.
• Bags are limited to 5 by 7 inches, or a clear bag up to 12 by 12 inches. Empty clear plastic water bottles are allowed, but no glass or metal containers.
• Shirts and shoes are required, and smoking is not allowed inside the event area.

For tickets info and the latest details, see the official Mystic Lake event page.