For nearly a decade, Funktafest Music & Arts Festival has been bringing color, rhythm, and togetherness to Huntington’s Ritter Park Amphitheater. Entering its ninth year, the two-day festival has grown from a grassroots idea into a beloved cultural tradition that blends music, art, food, and family fun in the heart of Appalachia.
Festival founder and producer Parry Casto says the mission is at the center of everything Funktafest does. “Funktafest is a two-day music and arts festival in Huntington, WV that celebrates creativity, community, and the spirit of the groove,” Casto explained. “Our mission is to create an inclusive, family-friendly space that showcases outstanding local and regional talent across music, visual art, and cultural experiences. By blending world-class performances with immersive art, food, and activities for all ages, Funktafest aims to inspire joy, bring people together, and keep the groove alive in the heart of the Tri-State.”
The event began as a labor of love, spearheaded by local musicians and artists who wanted to give Huntington something both world-class and uniquely local. “Funktafest was born out of a love for live music, community, and Huntington’s creative spirit,” Casto said. “What started as a grassroots effort… has grown into a professionally produced, community-driven celebration. The goal was simple: give Huntington a festival that felt funky, welcoming, and distinctly Appalachian.”
What sets Funktafest apart is its ability to combine high-energy performances with a whimsical, immersive atmosphere. “Funktafest blends high-energy national acts with a deep commitment to showcasing local and regional talent, while creating a playful, immersive environment unlike anything else in the area,” Casto noted. The festival’s mascots—such as Funkle Sam and Eye Guy—join cryptid-inspired branding, interactive art installations, yoga sessions, food trucks, craft beer, and a dedicated Funky Kidz Korner to make the event more than just a music lineup.
For Casto, the key to Funktafest’s identity is inclusivity. Whether attendees are families with young children, college students looking for live music, or longtime fans of Appalachian arts, there’s something for everyone. “It’s not just a concert,” Casto emphasized. “It’s a culturally rich experience that brings every corner of the community together.”
Tickets are available at funktafest.com, with options for single-day passes, weekend passes, and VIP upgrades. Children 12 and under are admitted free of charge. Every ticket grants full access to the festival grounds at Ritter Park Amphitheater, ensuring the entire community can take part in the funk.
As Funktafest prepares for its ninth edition, Casto reflects on how far the festival has come while keeping an eye on the future. From its humble beginnings to its current role as one of Huntington’s premier cultural gatherings, one thing remains the same: the groove is alive, and it’s here to stay.