Ribfest raises funds for Carmichael
Trying to raise funds without holding events has been a tough go for Carmichael Outreach, but now the organization is receiving some relief as it partners with Regina's first ribfest to once again collect in-person donations.
Carmichael typically relies heavily on its large in-person fundraising events like its Christmas meals and Merill Brinton Tournament of Hope for golfers, said Nick Faye, Carmichael's development co-ordinator. But COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of its last Christmas event and two golf tournaments now.
“It's been difficult to fundraise through the pandemic,” he said.
So when Rob Reinhardt, owner of Prairie Smoke & Spice BBQ in Regina, approached Carmichael about being the charity partner for the inaugural Queen City Ribfest, Faye said Carmichael was more than happy to accept.
“For us, it's huge and we're thankful for the opportunity,” Faye said. “It's a step toward some semblance of normalcy.”
The Queen City Ribfest is something Reinhardt has wanted to see come to life for years, since Regina is the only major city in Western Canada to not have an established ribfest.
With the pandemic slowing his business this year, he realized he had the time to organize the event himself. To keep the event COVID-SAFE and to make it easier to manage, he decided to create a drive-thru ribfest.
“We're hoping for a real fun experience and something unique for Regina folks to get out and enjoy,” Reinhardt said.
The event is being held at Evraz Place from Friday to Sunday, with vehicles entering from Lewvan Drive. Reinhardt said he hopes to see around 8,000 vehicles turn out over the weekend. People can stay to eat their food in Confederation Park near Mosaic Stadium or they can take it home.
“The barbecue vendors are going to be firing our grills and putting on a bit of a show and they finish the ribs on the grills, but everything gets chopped up and put in boxes. So as long as it takes to put it on a scale and put it on a box — that's as fast as we'll be serving,” he said.
The vendors are Prairie Smoke & Spice BBQ from Regina, Gator BBQ from Florida and Boss Hog's BBQ from Ontario. Mr. Spudds Poutinerie from Regina will also be on site, along with Steve-o's Deep Fried Sweets & Treats from Calgary.
Volunteers from Carmichael will be appealing for donations at the event and all proceeds will go to the non-profit.
The Queen City Ribfest will take place from 3 to 8 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. More information about the event and a full menu can be found online at qcribfest.com.