The seminal BBQ event in the Red River Valley is getting close to its 30th installment, though organizers aren't positive exactly how close.

FARGO, N.D. – “I mean, I think anywhere there’s smoke, there’s flavor,” said Lauren Vega of Cowboys Barbeque and Rib Co.

It’s the good kind of smoke, though, as the haze floating down from the Canadian border has largely cleared – just in time to be replaced by sweeter fumes from the grills of masters.

The hosts of Happy Harry’s RibFest don’t have an exact count on what iteration this is, thanks to an interruption or two since the first event in 1996.

But all that matters to barbeque fans is getting the best pit bosses possible to park outside the Fargodome.

That includes Paul Mackay, who’s been spreading his “Ausome Aussie” brand since 1988 and

See Full Page