Marc's Great American Rib Cook-Off and Music Festival

The Great American Rib Cook-off and Music Festival, held each Memorial Day weekend in downtown Cleveland at the Time-Warner Cable Amphitheater, is the unofficial start to the Northeast Ohio summer season.

The event, begun in 1992, features live music (included in the admission price); BBQ'd ribs with all of the fixings; and lots of fun. The 2009 dates are May 22-25.

The Food:

The four-day Rib Cook-off features ten BBQ masters from all over the state and the country. Among the entrants are restaurants from Virginia, Texas, South Carolina, and Minnesota. Northeast Ohio will be represented by Massillon-based Jack on the Bone. Prizes for Greatest Ribs, Greatest Sauce, and People's Choice are awarded.

The Music:

One of the best things about the Rib Cook-Off is that the concerts are all included in the admission price. The 2009 line-up includes Third Eye Blind, Shinedown, Keane, and Bret Michaels.

Hours and Admission:

The Great American Rib Cook-Off and Music Festival is open Friday (May 22) from 11am to 11pm, Saturday (May 23) from noon to 11pm, Sunday (May 24) from noon to 11pm, and Monday (May 25) from noon to 8pm.

2009 admission prices are $7 for adults. Children under 12 are free. The concerts are included in the admission; food prices vary.

Friday lunchtime (noon - 4pm) admission is free. In addition, admission is free on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3pm and only $1 all day on Monday.

Discounts:

Purchase $25 worth of food/beverage coupons in advance and receive two complimentary admission tickets to the Rib Cook-off and Music Festival. Visit the event Web site to order your tickets.

Hotels near the Marc's Great American Rib Cook-Off :

The Hilton Garden Inn (check rates), on Carnegie, is the official hotel of the Rib Cook-Off and is offering a special "Concerts in the City" package. Other good choices include the Cleveland Renaissance Hotel (check rates) and the Ritz Carlton Hotel (check rates), both within an easy walk of the venue.

Parking:

Parking is available at the Avenue at Tower City lot and other area parking facilities. A free shuttle will operate regularly from the Tower City lot to the Festival.

Contact Information:

Marc's Great American Rib Cook-Off and Music Festival
Time-Warner Cable Amphitheater
1887 W. 3rd St.
Cleveland, OH 44113

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