The SMG produced Argus Leader RibFest officially announced today a portion of its 2008 entertainment lineup.

Rock & roll veterans Loverboy will entertain the crowd on Thursday, May 29. Loverboy first played RibFest in 2004 and put on one of the highest attended shows in RibFest history. Led by the powerful vocals of Mike Reno, the band built its reputation on stage. Bringing the energy of their radio hits including “Working For The Weekend,” “Lucky Ones,” “Dangerous,” and “Lovin’ Every Minute Of It” to their live shows has earned them the legacy as some of the best live performers in the business. Bursting on the scene in 1980 with their self-titled debut album, they quickly became one of MTV’s and America’s most popular bands. Loverboy has garnered four multi-platinum albums and several international gold albums on their way to sold out arenas and stadiums around the world. Local favorites, Pete Good and the Toby Kane Band, will be opening for Loverboy on Thursday night.

Festivalgoers will have plenty of fun waiting for them on Friday, May 30, as The Johnny Holm Band heads back to the RibFest stage for an evening of hits and party tunes.

RibFest veterans, Kory & The Fireflies are returning to headline Saturday, May 31. Kory & the Fireflies will bring their energetic and inspiring show to the RibFest stage for the 11th year. As a nod to the success and popularity of South Dakota’s local musicians, Saturday will feature local music on stage all day. From 11 am to 11 pm, the RibFest stage will be full of some of the most talented groups in the area.

In its eleventh year, the RibFest has become one of the region’s largest festivals. “South Dakota’s Biggest Backyard BBQ” attracted over 45,000 festivalgoers last year. KidzFest, a free entertainment area for children within RibFest, will again offer many activities, performances and special appearances on Sunday.

Tickets go on sale Thursday, May 1st, at 10:00 am and can be purchased at the Sioux Falls Arena Box Office and all Ticketmaster outlets. Festival goers can also charge by phone at (605)334-8181 or on-line at www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets will also be available at the gate.