Funatix Events Creates Immersive Experiences All Year Round

It doesn’t matter how the temperatures fall in Bismarck-Mandan; there’s plenty to do and several opportunities to meet people across the community. Will Satler, General Manager at Funatix Events, is one of the reasons why there are more experiences across the region than ever.

“When we first started in 2019, we were entirely focused on revenue and ticket sales,” says Satler. “Now we have changed our process. When we plan an event, we start with a dream, not a budget. We want to create immersive guest experiences that celebrate and contribute to the community.”

Businesses hire Funatix Events to plan private events, but the company also works with community organizations like the Bismarck Marathon and Mandan Rodeo Days to plan festivals and gatherings that are open to the public.

Discover how Satler and his team at Funatix Events Make Their Mark while celebrating the cities they operate in. 

Funatix Events Takes a Hands-On Approach to Planning

Funatix Events brings a unique planning process to the table. Not only does the team focus on the experience before the budget, but it also considers how it can help clients beyond the traditional event planning services. This makes Funatix Events an invaluable partner while also allowing Satler to embrace his creative side.  

“Our group is incredibly hands-on,” he says. “We work with a diverse group of clients and vendors that all have their own opportunities and needs. We could produce cookie-cutter events, but we’re better than that. We’re developing experiences that create core memories.”

For example, Funatix Events was behind the Bismarck Mac & Cheese Fest that ran for the past three years. In 2026, Satler plans to change things up, with new festival ideas and offerings. It’s not that mac and cheese has become less delicious, just that it’s time for something new to keep residents excited and engaged.

“We are creating quality of life experiences for the people of Bismarck-Mandan and everyone who travels through here,” says Satler. “We support locals while also building the tourism economy.”

Events Create Human Connections in a Disconnected Society

Satler feels like his events are important because they get people out of their homes and among their friends and neighbors. Loneliness is a challenge that countless Americans face, even in our increasingly connected world. Studies show that social media usage actually increases feelings of loneliness, which can have a wide range of negative health outcomes, ranging from substance abuse to cardiovascular disease.

Leaving the house to attend a fun event for a few hours can build social connections, reduce feelings of loneliness, and support your overall mental health. Who knew that something like Mac & Cheese Fest could be so powerful?

“People say there’s nothing to do around town, and it’s our job to solve that issue,” says Satler. “We create experiences that bring people together, but those people have to be willing to attend.”

The biggest need Satler has as he plans events is for people across Bismarck-Mandan to be curious about these experiences and willing to try them out. The best way to make celebrations across the region successful is for people to leave their homes ready to party.

Businesses of All Sizes Can Work with Funatix Events

Entrepreneurs and business owners across Bismarck-Mandan can work with Funatix Events to create fun opportunities in the region while engaging residents. The company works with countless vendors and partners to make its events successful. There are always ways to bring in new businesses, whether they are sponsoring a festival or contributing to silent auctions.

“The more people we can work with, the more it will grow the scale of our events and grow our impact,” says Satler. “A small, community-focused business can get involved in multiple ways and attach their brand to us.”

People always ask what there is to do in Bismarck-Mandan during the winter, and Funatix Events is working to provide answers. They are ensuring there are plenty of activities and experiences that residents can enjoy and tourists can remember for years to come.

See How Other Organizations Make Their Mark

Making Your Mark is about using your skills and passions to improve the community. Countless individuals and companies Make Their Mark across Bismarck-Mandan throughout the year. Get to know Justice Erickson, who creates community with the Bismarck Young Professionals. Then meet Moses Ilunga, who is eager to welcome new residents to the state.  

Anyone can Make Their Mark, from a small gathering of friends for a board game night to a major event with thousands of attendees. Come to Bismarck-Mandan and see how the community is ready to welcome you home and celebrate your skills.