New in 2025 are country musicians performing on Friday night! We have put together an amazing line-up of award-winning country and blues musicians in addition to several restaurants serving their most delectable ribs and side dishes. Our bourbon bar is back this year in addition to our beer tent serving your favorite brews. Grab your lawn chairs, head to Century Park, and enjoy this fun festival along the shores of Little Bear Lake.

Little Bear Ribfest is truly a community event. Our special thanks to the Village of Vernon Hills and the volunteer groups who support the event each year. Everyone works tirelessly to bring you this event, and it shows! Vernon Hills has arguably the best festival site in all of Lake County.

Tickets ($5 for individuals over 5 years old) are available for purchase at the event gate on festival dates. Proceeds from Little Bear Ribfest support the Park District’s Family Scholarship Fund.

Entertainment:

5 pm - Dave Weld & the Imperial Flames

7 pm - Shawn Holt & the Teardrops

9 pm - John Primer & the Real Deal Blues Band