Mankato Ribfest
Mankato Ribfest
A Night to Remember with BDE Boys, Too Hype Crew, and Flo Rida
The Mankato Ribfest, renowned for its smoky allure and savory delights, added yet another feather to its cap with an exhilarating lineup of music artists this year. From mouth-watering ribs to heart-pounding music, the event promised — and delivered — an unforgettable evening for everyone present.
Before the evening got rocking too hard I ran up to the food vendors with my eldest daughter, and we tried a few different things! Every thing we tried left us wanting even more delicious samplings available this year! The corn on the cob was my particular favorite item this year.
The evening kickstarted with an electrifying performance by the BDE Boys. Their energy was infectious, setting the stage (quite literally) for the night ahead. Their performance ensured that the crowd was pumped and ready for more. The Mankato local Legends are definitely on the top of our Midwest to watch list. We have seen these guys a half dozen times now and still look forward to each show.
Following this spirited act was Too Hype Crew, a cover band with a reputation. Living up to their name, they not only hyped the audience but also showcased their impeccable talent by belting out some of the most iconic tracks. Their charisma and stage presence ensured that the crowd swayed, sang, and danced to every beat.
However, the pinnacle of the night was the eagerly anticipated performance by the global sensation, Flo Rida. While there was a slight delay in his appearance, when he finally took to the stage, it was clear that the wait had been worth it. Flo Rida, ever the showman, didn't just perform; he engaged with the audience in a manner few artists manage. The highlight was when he invited several attendees, including my daughters, to share the stage and dance with him. It's memories like these that concert-goers cherish for a lifetime.
However, fans did voice a minor disappointment. Despite the enthusiasm for Flo Rida's music, there was no official merchandise available. As someone who has supplied merchandise for various Midwest shows, I can't help but wish there was a streamlined way to identify such gaps in event planning. Merchandise not only offers fans a tangible memory but also amplifies the overall show quality.
Compliments are also due to the Mankato Police Department, whose officers exhibited both professionalism and approachability. Their swift interventions ensured potential altercations were nipped in the bud, creating a safe environment for all attendees. Additionally, the ever-vigilant paramedics deserve praise for their unwavering commitment to everyone's well-being.
That said, the event wasn't without its flaws. A concern that stood out was the over-serving of alcohol to patrons. Observing clearly intoxicated individuals continue to receive drinks was unsettling. Perhaps, with more stringent guidelines, such incidents could be minimized, ensuring a wholly enjoyable experience for everyone.
In conclusion, Mankato Ribfest was, undoubtedly, a grand success. While there are areas for improvement, the music, the ambiance, and the sheer joy of the event will remain etched in the memories of many. Here's to more such nights of revelry and celebration!