Visitors were provided with the ultimate barbecue experience, while some of the Okanagan's best known bands performed on stage at a brand new festival, Saturday.
The Rotary Club of Penticton Ribfest is now officially underway at Okanagan Lake Park.
"I'm here for the music, the atmosphere and the chance to be in the wonderful country of Canada," said Torrey Daniels, a visitor from Bellingham, Wash.
Rotary members came up with the idea of holding the festival here, after going to a rib festival in Kamloops.
Since then the three day event has been two years in the making.
"We thought it would be a great idea for Penticton and we are using it to raise money for various charities," said Rotary member Justin White.
On Saturday, people of all ages, lined up to sample ribs from four professional rib barbecuers from all over North America.
There was also a beverage garden, various vendors, stilt walkers, jugglers and clowns roaming the grounds, live music and a fun zone and petting zoo for children.
"I could smell it from blocks away and it smells good," said Vi Dobozy, of Penticton. "And I like that a lot of people showed up."
Organizers estimated there were anywhere from 3,000 to 5,000 people the first day, Friday, and are expecting good crowds for the rest of the weekend.
"People are really appreciating that it's free, the ribs are fantastic and a great value and that the bands are great," said White.
Ribfest continues today until 9 p.m. today and from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday at Okanagan Lake Park.