Kalona Realty Hosts Farm to Film Fest Preview

Organizers discuss upcoming event celebrating local food and filmmaking

Mar. 20, 2026 at 11:00pm

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In a two-part interview, Jennifer Wilkerson of KCII Radio spoke with Melinda Lord, the Treasurer and Festival Director of the Farm to Film Fest, and Nancy Rash, the event's Secretary. They discussed details about the upcoming month-long festival in Kalona, Iowa that celebrates the intersection of local food production and independent filmmaking.

Why it matters

The Farm to Film Fest is an annual celebration that brings the Kalona community together around its thriving local food economy and vibrant arts scene. As a small town event, it highlights how rural areas can foster unique cultural experiences that attract visitors and strengthen community bonds.

The details

The Farm to Film Fest features a variety of film screenings, panel discussions, and other events that explore themes around sustainable agriculture, food justice, and environmental conservation. Organizers work with local farms, food producers, and filmmakers to curate a program that showcases the Kalona region's agricultural heritage and creative talent.

  • The 2026 Farm to Film Fest is scheduled for April 15-30.
  • This interview with the festival organizers took place on March 20, 2026, about a month before the event.

The players

Melinda Lord

The Treasurer and Festival Director of the Farm to Film Fest.

Nancy Rash

The Secretary of the Farm to Film Fest.

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What they’re saying

“We're really excited to bring the community together around local food and independent filmmaking again this year.”

— Melinda Lord, Festival Director

“The festival has grown each year, and we can't wait to showcase all the amazing talent we have in the Kalona area.”

— Nancy Rash, Festival Secretary

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Farm to Film Fest will go on sale on April 1st. The full festival schedule will be announced on the event's website and social media channels in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Farm to Film Fest is a unique celebration that highlights how small towns can leverage their local food systems and creative communities to build cultural events that bring people together and attract visitors to the region.