Two major events are coming together this year to form one mega event in Avon -- The Hendricks County Rib-Fest and Avon Balloon Glow!

Hendricks County Rib FestThis will be the 12th year for Rib-Fest, which begins at 4 p.m., June 25. As you can probably gather from the name, this festival's food never disappoints as multiple local food vendors will compete to see who has the best ribs and best sauce and will of course have plenty of other food in addition to ribs for purchase. A few local non-profit vendors also will provide various desserts to cap off your meal. 

If you would like to consume the ribs guilt-free, sign up for the Rib Run 5K starting at 6:30 p.m. or the children's version, the 1/4-Slab Rib Run, which begins at 6 p.m. New this year, the festival will even host a "Sloppy Rib Run" division where you can eat up to five ribs at each kilometer mark to get time reduced from your overall total.

The family area of this event is massive with fun games for the kids from crafts, to sports, to prize wheels. Be sure to bring your blanket and camp chairs because the entertainment lineup is packed.

The live music headliner will be Jambox. This cover band won two 2016 Best of Indy Awards presented by Nuvo for Best Cover Band and Best Local Vocalist. The band's energy is contagious as they play classic rock hits from the '70s and '80s.Rib Fest Festival

While the food is cooking and the music is hopping, the tethered balloon rides will begin. There may be tickets available that night, but organizers highly recommend purchasing your ticket in advance to secure this unique opportunity.

After your bellies are full and you are tired from dancing, the nighttime entertainment will begin! Ten hot-air balloons will light up the sky with a show to music from 8:45-9:30 p.m.

At dusk, the traditional fireworks display, which is one of the best in the county, will begin. With all the food, fun and festivities, your entire family will head home happy after one of the best events of the year!

Hendricks County Rib-Fest & Avon Balloon Glow

  • Date: Saturday June 25
  • Time: 4-10 p.m.
  • Location: Kingsway Christian Church, 7981 E. County Road 100 N, Avon
  • Free to attend, $5 to park