Optimism is still high for a possible big payday from a big-eats festival returning to the Tri-Cities this year.
Last month, Port Moody Ribfest organizers began selling tickets for its Colossal 50/50 jackpot and are looking to crank up the heat in hopes of sending a patron home with a six-figure payout.
As of this publication (April 26), the jackpot is just under $1,400.
However, three Rotary clubs from across the region tell the Tri-City News they'd like to give away as much as $120,000.
And if that's half, the total jackpot would have to be at least $240,000 and would be the largest Ribfest draw to date.
The latter sum is earmarked for student scholarships, community organizations and kids programs led by Rotarians in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody.
Carrie Belanger, chair of the Ribfest Colossal 50/50 draw and president of the Port Coquitlam Rotary Club, explained "Rotary clubs in the area connect to address region-wide service needs in education, elder care, addictions, food security and other areas."
Ribfest is returning to Port Moody's Rocky Point Park for the first time since 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic forced the event to cancel the last two years.
The first was held in 2015 when roughly 40,000 visitors enjoyed smoked and grilled meats from a variety of professional grillers that travel a circuit of such events around North America.
Several local food trucks that specialize in vegetarian dishes have also inquired about participating, co-chair Frank Marchand said in an earlier interview with the Tri-City News.
He adds his fellow committee members have stepped up efforts in the entertainment side of the festival, like signing 15 musical acts covering jazz, rock, country and R&B.
This year’s event will be fully licensed, Marchand explained, meaning visitors will be able to enjoy a beer anywhere on the grounds.
The deadline to purchase Colossal 50/50 tickets is 9 p.m. on July 17 — the day of Port Moody Ribfest.
The winning number will be drawn the following Sunday, July 24 at 1 p.m.
Interested participants and confirmed patrons can select one of three options:
- One ticket for $20
- Three tickets for $50
- Eight tickets for $100
For more information about the 2022 Port Moody Ribfest, you're encouraged to visit the event's website.
