The weather for Memorial Day weekend is going to be gorgeous in Cleveland, so those of you who have been holding off on making plans, the time has come to move forward!

A great way to kick off the summer is by spending the weekend at The Great American Rib Cook Off and Music Festival, held each year in downtown Cleveland. Your price of admission includes live music, BBQ ribs with all of the fixin’s, and lots of fun. The 2008 dates are May 23 through may 26, which makes this a great little holiday weekend getaway.

BBQ masters from all over the country arrive in the Midwest to show off their rib skills with the goal of receiving the prize for Greatest Ribs, Greatest Sauce, and/or People’s Choice Award.

Live entertainment this year consists of KC and the Sunshine Band, Jonny Lang, Colin Dussault’s Blues Project, Dennis DeYoung, and Seether.

The Rib Cook Off is not only family-friendly entertainment, it is also economical. The Cook-Off and Music Festival is open Friday (May 23) from 11am to 11pm; Saturday (May 24) from Noon to 11pm; Sunday (May 25) from Noon to 11pm; and Monday (May 26) from Noon to 8pm. Admission prices for 2008 are $7 for adults. Children under 12 are free. The concerts are included in the admission and food prices vary. Friday lunchtime (Noon – 4pm) admission is free.

Above and beyond that, there are discounts available. Two dollar discount coupons are available at Marc’s stores and via the WKYC Website and you can also receive a $2 discount by showing a Memorial Day Cleveland Indians ticket stub.

Now there is no reason to stay home this weekend. Pack up the family and head to downtown Cleveland for sunshine, live entertainment, and great food. As always, be safe, and have a WONDERFUL holiday!