Aloha!
This one's for the team.
Our biggest celebration of the year is back at the ballpark, and 2026 goes full luau. A day built around the people of Sanford and the families who keep them going - capped by fireworks and a drone show.
This August, Sanford Health is taking over Bismarck Municipal Ballpark for one reason: the people who show up all year deserve a day that's all about them. Bring the kids, bring your crew, and let us handle the rest.
More than 1,800 team members and their families joined in 2025 - one of our most popular celebrations yet.
Relive last year
What it looked like in 2025
The "Back to the 90s" ballpark celebration was a blast. Here's a look back - then come help us top it in 2026.
This year's headliner · Main stage 7:30 PM
Lost in Paradise takes the stage
Our 2026 luau has its soundtrack. Lost in Paradise is a Jimmy Buffett tribute band built for a night exactly like this - island shirts, beachy singalongs, and a laid-back set that turns the ballpark into one big party.
What's happening
A full day, with a luau twist
Live music, island performers, a kids zone, and a fireworks and drone show finale.
Live concert & DJ
Featuring Lost in Paradise, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, and a DJ to keep the island party going right up to the finale.
Grand finale display
The night ends big: a fireworks show and a choreographed drone light show over the ballpark, built exclusively for Sanford team memebers and their families.
Island performers
Don't miss a special on-field show featuring belly dancers, hula-hoop artists, and more.
Castaway Creations Zone
Island-themed DIY crafts for all ages. Make something to take home from the celebration.
Family Fun Zone
Inflatables for all ages, laser tag, and the Island Games Dock - all in one area built for the kids.
Photos & keepsakes
Photo booth, family caricatures, face painting, and balloon artists.
Saturday, August 15 · 4 - 10 PM
Schedule of events
One day, plenty to do, at your own pace.
Gates open
Check in at the front gate of the ballpark. We can't wait to welcome you!
Food service
Families enjoy a full, island-style meal featuring a variety of entrée options, sides, and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests have plenty of options to choose from, including specialty desserts and custom sodas.
On-field entertainment
Don't miss the island performers as they take the field.
Live concert begins
Live music takes the main stage till the grand finale so you can sing and dance along to your favorites.
Family activities open
Inflatables, laser tag, Castaway Creations Zone and the Island Games Dock for the kids.
Fireworks & drone finale
The celebration closes with fireworks and a drone light show, special for Sanford employees and their families.
Final times are subject to confirmation. Your day-of guide with exact timing lands before August 15.
Dinner's on us
Here's what's included
Every guest gets the full spread - all part of your RSVP, no wallet required.
Catered buffet
Bacon Sausage Medallions, Pulled Pork, and more from the Bismarck Larks, served in the right field concourse.
The main event
Pick a local favorite Alabama Chicken Breast from Paddle Trap, 2 Shrimp Tacos or Veggie Stir Fry one entree for every guest.
Dessert or custom soda
One sweet treat or a custom soda from FOMO 10-40 Creamery, Mo's Snow Shack, the Bismarck Larks, or Soda Drop.
Soft drinks & water
Pepsi non-alcoholic options and bottled water in the right field concourse of the ballpark.
Beer, seltzers & cocktails
Three themed bar stations serving beer, seltzers, and canned cocktails. Valid ID required.
What the team said
Hear from past attendees
Best one yet. The kids were busy from the second we walked in, and we stayed all the way through the fireworks. This is the night our family looks forward to every year.
The concert and fireworks were the highlight. Great music, easy to find a spot, and it honestly felt like a celebration of us.
So much for the kids - the inflatables and laser tag kept them going for hours, and there was plenty to eat. A genuinely fun night for the whole family.
How RSVP works
3 steps, about 2 minutes
Reserving helps us set food, seating, and more around the right head count.
Reserve your passes
Grab a pass for each adult and each child coming with you.
Save your QR code
You'll get a QR code by email. Save it to your phone.
Scan and enjoy
Show your QR code at the gate and you're in.
RSVP by July 31, 2026
Getting there
Location & parking
Bismarck Municipal Ballpark
Dakota Community Bank & Trust Field
303 W Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504
- Parking is free. Lots fill up early, so give yourself extra time to get in and parked.
- Street parking is available on the surrounding streets when the lots are full.
- Accessible parking is near the main entrance, with an attendant to help.
- Big group? Carpooling keeps the lots open and gets everyone in faster.
Good to know
Questions, answered
Who can come?
All Sanford Health team members, volunteers, and their families. RSVP is required for entry.
When do I need to RSVP by?
The hard deadline is July 31, 2026. Spots and food are planned around head count, so the sooner you reserve, the better.
What does it cost?
Nothing. Your RSVP includes the catered buffet, a specialty entree, a dessert or custom soda, and Pepsi soft drinks. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the cash bars (21+, valid ID).
Are there options for dietary needs?
Yes, items are planned to accomodate all attendees. For a specific allergy or need, email sanfordfamily@funatixevents.com ahead of time and we'll take care of it.
What should we bring?
Lawn chairs and blankets for the concert, sunscreen, bug spray and comfortable clothes for August weather. We'll have shaded seating available.
Are strollers and accessibility covered?
Strollers are welcome. ADA parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible seating are all available. Ask the event team at check-in for any specific needs.
What about pets?
Only service animals are permitted, out of caution for all attendees.
What if it rains?
The celebration runs rain or shine. If severe weather affects the day, we'll send updates by email and post them on this page.
Anything I can't bring?
No outside food or alcohol, weapons, fireworks, or personal drones. Water bottles are permitted.
Relax on Island Time
Save your family's spot
Reserve your passes today. RSVPs closes July 31. We'll see you at the ballpark!
RSVP now