“Where stories come home”—A fresh identity for Northeast Arkansas’ growing film event
JONESBORO, AR (August 2025) – After three years as the Oasis Film & Digital Media Festival, organizers have unveiled a new name and expanded vision: Porchlight Film Festival, a community-rooted celebration of regional and independent storytelling. The 2026 festival will take place April 10-12, 2026, at the historic Forum Theater at the Foundation of Arts in downtown Jonesboro.
“We wanted a name that evokes comfort, southern roots, and an open invitation to filmmakers of all backgrounds,” said Festival Director Lorenzo Balderas. “Porchlight reflects our mission: creating a welcoming space where stories and storytellers can come home.”
The rebranded festival will feature three days of film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, hands-on workshops, student showcases, and networking opportunities. Submissions are now open via FilmFreeway with categories for features, shorts, collegiate, and youth filmmakers.
Balderas added, “The name also holds historical significance as we honor the building that houses the event. The Forum Theater was once known as the Strand Theater. It served as a beacon for downtown: a movie house where people could come and experience stories together. We want to continue that legacy.”
For more information, submissions, or press inquiries, visit porchlightfest.com.
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