Marc's Great American Rib Cook Off

Forget the calendar: Summer doesn’t kick off in Cleveland till we’ve sucked some ribs. Lucky for us, the annual Marc’s Great American Rib Cook Off returns this weekend to the West Bank of the Flats, bringing with it bones, bands, and enough barbecue sauce to float a coal barge. It’s the 21st year for the four-day chowdown, which runs Friday May 25 through Monday, May 28. This year, ten professional grilling teams will be pitted against one another for glory, awards, and bragging rights. Once your tummy is taken care of, tune up your ears: The music portion of the proceedings kicks off with Friday's B-52s performance. Coming up over the remainder of the weekend: Todd Rundgren, Staind, the Wailers, and Michael Stanley and the Resonators. The bands are included in your ticket price, but reserved seats will cost you extra. In general, admission is $5 for coupon-carrying adults and free for kids 12 and younger. However, there are a bunch of ticket deals available online, including a combo package with the nearby Greater Cleveland Aquarium. It’s all happening at Nautica and the Jacobs Pavilion. Hours are noon to 11 p.m. Check out the website for coupons, parking info, and other timely tidbits.