Returning for a 19th year, the Hendricks County Rib-Fest & BBQ is a must for locals and visitors alike who love good BBQ, hot air balloons and children's activities. This family-friendly event features incredible food and plenty of fun for all ages.

Here is everything you need to know about this annual event:

Rise & Swine Rib Run

Hendricks County Rib-Fest Rib Run

Get your morning started off right by participating in the 10th annual 5K Rib Run/Walk. The Rib Run gets started at 9 a.m. Then at 10 a.m., the youngsters (ages 1-12) can get in on the action and show off their speed in the Riblet Run, which is a fun, 1/4-mile run.

Registered participants will get plenty of swag, including a race T-shirt and $5 worth of Rib-Fest food/drink tickets.    The 

Food Vendors

Princess enjoying ribs at the Hendricks County Rib-Fest; photo courtesy of the Hendricks County Rib-Fest Facebook Page

There will be plenty of finger-licking-good options from a variety of BBQ vendors. Feast on creations from local and well-loved vendors such as Barbeque & Bourbon, Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill, Delia's Ribs & Catering and many more.

In addition to BBQ and other sweet treats, a designated alcohol area will serve beer and wine for those 21 and over. 

Craft Fair

Handmade Items to be Sold at the Plainfield Lions Club Craft Fair

The third annual craft fair, sponsored by the Plainfield Lions Club, will take place inside the Expo Hall at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds and will run from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

Shoppers can browse through more than 65 vendors featuring jewelry, home decor, knitted items, woodworking, apparel, seasonal items, quilts, soaps, candles, yard art and the list goes on. 

Winter at Hendricks County Parks

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Heritage Expo

Rib-Fest Heritage Expo (Photo courtesy of the Hendricks County Rib-fest & BBQ Facebook page)

Plan to stop by the South Hall from 4-6 p.m. for an array of cultural activities. The family-friendly Heritage Expo will showcase ethnic food as well as fashions from various countries.

For the Kids

Hendricks County Rib-Fest

The fun doesn't stop there. In addition to the Riblet Run and plenty of kid-approved food, families will want to stop by the petting zoo and inflatables.

The kids' activities (besides the Riblet Run) are all free!

Night Entertainment

Rib-Fest & Avon Balloon Glow

Stick around as the sun sets. Colorful hot air balloons and dazzling fireworks will light up the Hendricks County horizon with a spectacular display. Don't forget your picnic blankets and lawn chairs and find the perfect spot on the lawn to wrap up the 19th annual Rib Fest.

What You Need To Know