Maybe it was the 17 vendors this year at Naperville's Ribfest from Australia to Texas, or maybe it was the "Nudge," but the first day of the
four-day festival has seen a record turn out so far.

Some of the longest lines of the night were spotted at the Texas Outlaws and over at Uncle Bub's tent.

"The meat just has to be that right combination between sweet and spicy," said Aurora resident Jamie Damitz.

Judges at last year's Ribfest gave the Westmont-based Uncle Bub's restaurant first place for best ribs and second place for best sauce. Ted Nugent gave
the first headliner concert Thursday evening. REO Speedwagon, Joan Jett and Trace Adkins will take the stage Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Aside from a few children separated and then reunited with their parents, Ribfest security said there were no reported incidents during the day.

For grillers and attendees who munched on their wares, the weather was gorgeous - averaging in the 70s during the day with generous sunshine.

Ribfest officials said attendance Thursday afternoon was the highest yet for the festival's first day, reaching from 10,000 to 12,000 between noon and 4 p.m.

"It's definitely setting the pace for the whole weekend," said Walter Johnson, Ribfest Board of Directors. "And it's only going to get better from here."

Lindsey Theis Reports.