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Vernon's Funtastic festival sets sights on 40

Slo-Pitch and Music Festival reaches the four-decade milestone in 2026

The countdown to 40 is on for Western Canada's largest slo-pitch softball tournament and music festival.

Funtastic hits the four-decade milestone in 2026, with the annual event slated for June 26-29 at the Vernon Army Camp.

"This milestone promises to be a memorable celebration, honouring nearly four decades of community, sport, and music," said Funtastic Sports Society chairperson Jamie Austin, whose board is actively exploring innovative ways to enhance the festival experience Ïã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥” adding even more fun, excitement, and memorable moments for attendees.

The society has named Funtastic Hall of Fame member Brad Krauza as its newly appointed music festival sponsorship liaison.

Krauza is a longtime member of the Young'Uns band.

"Brad will collaborate closely with the music committee and board to attract new corporate partnerships and sponsors, elevating the Funtastic A&W Music Festival to new heights," said Austin. "His extensive experience in organizing and promoting music festivals will be instrumental in expanding our sponsorship network and enriching the festival experience for all."

Krauza will work alongside Funtastic executive manager Diana Williamson and booking liaison Bryan Quint.

Funtastic has been VernonÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s premier summer event and the regionÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s leading economic driver in the North Okanagan.

As Western CanadaÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s largest slo-pitch and music festival, it continues to draw visitors and participants from across the region. And as a community-focused organization, the mission of the Funtastic Sports Society is Building a Better Community through Sport.

"The festivalÏã½¶ÊÓÆµÖ±²¥™s success allows us to give back locally through the Funtastic Community Grant Program, which has donated more than $305,000 to various organizations to date," said Austin. "Additionally, the festival has contributed approximately $2.4 million to community improvements and initiatives."

Businesses interested in being part of the historic 40th annual Funtastic Slo-Pitch and Music Festival are encouraged to contact Krauza or Williamson at .



Roger Knox

About the Author: Roger Knox

I am a journalist with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. I started my career in radio and have spent the last 21 years working with Black Press Media.
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