Where the next generation of rural leaders come together to build community and share bold ideas for the future.

Saturday, August 9, 2025 | Mickey’s Black Box
101 Rock Lititz Blvd, Lititz, PA 17543

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Line Up

Raury

Apes of the State

The Takes

My Familiar

Nathan Evans Fox

Workshops and Panels

Diversity & Rurality
12:30 PM

Too often, rural communities are portrayed as monolithic—but in reality, they are home to rich cultural traditions, diverse populations, and the springboard for innovative grassroots leadership. This panel highlights the transformative work being led in rural communities by and for leaders of underserved communities. Panelists will share stories of cultural revitalization, community power-building, and creative strategies for resilience, all rooted in local identity and lived experience. Join us for a conversation that reclaims the rural narrative and uplifts the people shaping its future.

How to Chase Fascism out of Your Backyard
1:10 PM

This interactive session explores the real-world tools, tactics, and strategies that grassroots organizers are using in small towns and rural communities to build power and win lasting change. Panelists and facilitators will share hard-earned lessons on coalition-building, campaign planning, messaging, and sustaining momentum with limited resources. Whether you’re new to organizing or looking to sharpen your approach, this session offers practical steps and inspiring stories to help you turn community vision into community victory.

2050 Action Planning
1:45 PM

Let's build the future we deserve. Rural Pennsylvania is rich with possibility—and its communities are ready for bold, people-powered change. This hands-on workshop brings together local leaders, organizers, and neighbors to co-create a community-driven plan for progressive action rooted in the unique needs, strengths, and values of rural PA. Participants will identify concrete steps to move from ideas to action. Together, we’ll map out strategies, set priorities, and build a shared vision for a more just and thriving rural Pennsylvania.

Faith & Progressive Space
2:30 PM

In rural and small-town communities, faith communities are organizing at the grassroots level to advance justice, equity, and dignity for all. This panel brings together leaders from diverse spiritual traditions who are turning moral convictions into collective action, both within their congregations and in the broader community. Panelists will share experiences grounded in faith and driven by deep local relationships. Join us for an inspiring conversation about how spiritual spaces can become powerful engines for progressive change.

What is 2050 Fest?

Hosted by Rural Progress, this one-day festival brings together visionary artists, organizers, and cultural leaders to envision a bold future for small towns and rural communities.

WHO
Rural young people artists, organizers, creatives, and community allies—especially from Black, Indigenous, Latino, and working-class backgrounds.

WHAT
A one-day cultural and civic festival to launch Rural 2050, featuring music, workshops, food, storytelling, and a visionary community of changemakers.

Additional Activities for All Ages