Ypsi’s free FunFest spotlights local musicians and artists for sixth year

On the Ground Ypsilanti is an “embedded journalism” program covering the city and township of Ypsilanti. It is supported by Ann Arbor SPARK, the Center for Health and Research Transformation, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Engage @ EMU, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Washtenaw ISD.

Local musicians, artists, and community members will gather at Ypsilanti’s Frog Island Amphitheater on Aug. 8 for the sixth annual FunFest, a free, daylong celebration of Southeast Michigan’s independent music scene. Organized by Fundamental Sound Co. owner Taylor Greenshields, the annual festival has grown steadily since its inception while maintaining its do-it-yourself spirit. 

FunFest transforms the often-unused Frog Island Amphitheater into a destination filled with music, lights, and community. Throughout the day, festivalgoers will have the opportunity to experience performances from established local acts alongside emerging artists.

“The biggest new or different thing about FunFest this year is our Acoustic Stage,” Greenshields says. “This year we will have four acoustic sets happening between the sets on the main stage.”

The new stage and additional performances are designed to keep music flowing throughout the festival while highlighting a diverse group of regional singer-songwriters. Greenshields says the acoustic lineup will feature Skinned Knees, Adam J. Snyder, Maddy Ringo, and Carmel Liburdi. 

As the event enters its sixth year, Greenshields says FunFest continues to expand while remaining rooted in the community-centered approach that launched the event. He says the festival’s focus has always been highlighting local artists, vendors, and organizations. While each year’s festival introduces something new, Greenshields says much of FunFest’s continued evolution comes from lessons learned through experience.

“I’m trying to keep up with that growth while maintaining the same DIY energy it started with,” Greenshields says. “I think of the festival like an instrument, which we fine-tune year after year.”

The festival’s community support extends well beyond the performers taking the stage. Greenshields credits a wide network of sponsors, volunteers, vendors, and artists who help make the festival possible each year.

“I want to shout out Bank of Ann Arbor, Ypsi Real, Washtenaw Community College and Miles Gerou Law for their sponsorship support,” he says. “Plus all the vendors, bands, volunteers, and everyone who helps make this thing happen.”

The festival has become an opportunity not only to showcase local musicians but also to bring residents together in one of Ypsi’s signature public gathering spaces. For Greenshields, the event’s location has always been central to its purpose. He says he hopes first-time attendees leave with an appreciation for both the venue and the depth of artistic talent throughout Southeast Michigan.

FunFest will take place at the Frog Island Amphitheater Aug. 8 from 1:30-10:30 p.m. The event is free to attend, but tickets may be purchased here to provide a donation to the festival. More information, including a full lineup of performances, can be found on the event’s Facebook page.

“It’s a lot of work putting this all together but when it gets filled up with music and people, it takes on a different life and vibration,” Greenshields says. “I hope attendees witness a stage that usually sits empty come to life with lights, sound, music, and people coming together in community.”