The smell of slow-smoked barbecue filled Pittsburgh's North Shore this weekend as thousands of people packed the annual Acrisure Stadium Kickoff and Rib Festivalduring Labor Day weekend.
The festival, which runs alongside the start of college football season in western Pennsylvania, features 12 pitmasters from across the country serving up ribs, pulled pork and other barbecue favorites. Visitors spent the day sampling offerings from vendors while enjoying live music, family activities and entertainment surrounding Acrisure Stadium.
The event traces its roots back to 1990 and has grown into one of Pittsburgh's signature Labor Day weekend traditions. Today, the festival stretches across the North Shore, bringing together food, football and live
performances in a celebration that attracts visitors from throughout the region.
Many attendees spent Sunday comparing barbecue styles and casting their own unofficial votes for the best ribs. Pitmasters competing at the festival are also vying for the 2026 PA Pork Pitmaster Awards, where a celebrity judging panel will select the grand champion.
Live music continued throughout the weekend, adding to the festival atmosphere as crowds moved between food vendors and entertainment areas. The event also followed Pitt football's home opener against Miami (Ohio), creating a busy holiday weekend on the North Shore.
With free admission and dozens of barbecue options to choose from, Rib Fest continues to be a popular Labor Day destination for families, football fans and food lovers alike. The festival concludes Monday with additional food, music and the crowning of this year's rib champion.
This article by Gabby Sartori was created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publication process. The AI was used as a tool to assist with drafting and organization. All content was reviewed for accuracy and adherence to ethical standards. Learn more about Gannett's AI policy at USA Today's Ethical Conduct Policy.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Pittsburgh Rib Fest serves up barbecue, and music on the North Shore
