It is usually around a competition(like a chili cookoff). So you will have 10-20-50 people/teams making ribs(often in several categories, it depends on the size/setup of the rib fest) There is a "peoples choice" portion & the competitors who choose to take part will send several racks of ribs to be plated as 1-2-3-4-5-etc You buy a plate & then you vote on your favorite(s). There are also bbq judges(not always, but most times)for the professional awards. Additionally there will often be vendors who will sell plates as well. These things can be as big or small as the organizers choose. Some will have carnivals & be like a mini fair, some will only have the peoples choice/pro judging-no vendors, no carnival, just down & dirty all about the ribs, some will have a "taste of...." type event where there are more than just ribs available, its just a mixed bag Hope that helps!!