Extra Innings Festival made its highly anticipated debut this year as an extension of the popular Innings Festival, taking place at the picturesque Tempe Beach Park. The festival, perfectly timed to coincide with Spring Training (and Arizona’s most enjoyable time to be outside), offered attendees a unique blend of live music, baseball-themed activities, and an array of delicious food and drink options.
For baseball enthusiasts, Extra Innings Festival was nothing short of a dream come true. The lineup of MLB legends was star-studded, with appearances by Ryan Braun, Jake Peavy, Andre Ethier, Bobby Valentine, Mark Mulder, Rollie Fingers, and Russ Ortiz. Fans had the incredible opportunity to rub shoulders with their favorite players, step into the batter’s box at the batting cages, test their pitching skills at the speed pitch challenges and even hop on the innovative blender bike for a spin.
But Extra Innings Festival wasn’t just about baseball- it was a celebration of music, community and the joy of being together under the Arizona sun. The festival grounds buzzed with excitement as attendees explored the wide variety of food and drink options available. From local favorites like Danzeisen Creamery and Island Noodles to the refreshing offerings at The Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Lounge and Mamita’s Tequila and Soda, there was something to satisfy every craving.
Day one of the festival leaned towards honky-tonk country, with cowboy hats aplenty in the crowd. The energy was palpable as the lineup kicked off with Indie folk-rock outfit The Takes. Making their first-ever festival appearance, they delighted the early crowd with their infectious energy and premiered their new song “Outside 45.”
Following them, Goodnight, Texas brought their unique brand of folk-rock to the stage, showcasing their ability to bridge distances with both frontmen living on opposite coasts. Currently on tour opening for and then backing up Donavon Frankenreiter, they set the perfect vibe for the sunny afternoon.
Kaitlin Butts, known for her cosmic cowgirl persona, took the main stage and captivated the audience with her heartfelt songs and engaging stage presence. Debuting her new song “Hunt You Down,” she had the crowd singing along and swaying to the music. Butts is also currently on tour with Donavon Frankenreiter, bringing her infectious energy to audiences across the country.
Donavon Frankenreiter, the professional surfer turned musician, took the stage with his son Hendrix, delivering a feel-good performance backed by Goodnight, Texas. Their laid-back tunes had everyone in the crowd smiling and dancing along.
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram then took the stage, wowing the audience with his blend of funk, rock and blues. His energetic performance had everyone moving their feet, dancing and grooving to the music.Â
Shane Smith & The Saints from Austin, TX, kept the energy high with their signature country sound. Announcing the release of their new album “Norther,” they had the crowd on their feet and singing along to every song. The band will make their Opry debut at the end of the month.
Elle King brought her unique style to the stage, treating fans to favorites like “Ex’s & Oh’s” and a special mention of her father, actor and comedian Rob Schneider, who was in attendance. King’s powerful voice and dynamic stage presence had the crowd captivated, singing along and dancing under the Arizona sun.
Charley Crockett brought his country blues rock to the festival, playing a mix of fan favorites along with a cover of Buck Owens’ “Act Naturally” and getting the cowboy crowd in their element. Crockett’s newest album, $10 Cowboy, is set to release on April 26th, and fans at Extra Innings Festival were treated to a sneak peek of his upcoming music.
The evening continued with Ryan Bingham, who charmed the audience with his harmonica skills and soulful voice. Bingham is known for combining his music with his acting career, notably in the TV show Yellowstone, and he brought that same gritty authenticity to the stage at Extra Innings Festival. His powerful performance had the crowd singing along and swaying to the music.
Turnpike Troubadours kept the honky-tonk spirit alive, delivering a lively set that had the crowd singing along and dancing. Currently touring their most recent album with dates across the U.S., they brought their infectious energy and authentic country sound to Extra Innings Festival, closing out day one on a high note.
And finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived as the first-ever headliner of Extra Innings Festival, Country Music Hall of Famer Chris Stapleton, took the stage. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics filled the night air as he played hit after hit, ending the night with fan favorite “Tennessee Whiskey.” Stapleton’s performance was nothing short of magical, leaving attendees with memories to last a lifetime and closing out day one in unforgettable style.
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Story and photos by Kristen Bourdeau
