It's an integral part of the Funtastic Slo-Pitch Festival.
Not the softball games, the costumes, or the camaraderie.
The music.
The 2025 Funtastic A&W Slo-pitch and Music Festival featured local bands, country stars, and tribute acts. Those playing in the tournament, as well as ticket-holders, could enjoy music between or even during the night games under the lights at the Vernon Army Camp diamonds.
Heck, one player in the tournament, took time away from the diamond to front his band and sing the vocals as they opened Saturday's music sets. Jay Keis is the lead singer for Carbon Copy.
Local acts included The Dirt Road Kings, Sean Lightfoot Band, The Feels and the Young'Uns.
Country music star Nate Haller helped close out Saturday's roster.
Tribute acts included salutes to Shania Twain, Fleetwood Mac, Bryan Adams, and American Rock Legends, ie, John Fogerty, Bob Seger, and Bruce Springsteen.
Planning is underway for both the 2026 music and softball events.
"We're gearing up for our 40th anniversary, looking to bring in some phenomenal bands," said Funtastic Society president Jamie Austin. "We're going to throw a really big party next year."
