Oneota Film Festival Announces Free Winter Screenings Across Region

We cover Decorah because we love it. Show your love back — donate today. The Oneota Film Festival will host a series of free pre-festival film screenings across northeast Iowa and southeast Minnesota this winter, offering audiences an early look at films ahead of the festival's return to Decorah in March. The screenings are open to the public and free to attend. Audience members who attend any of the events can register for a chance to win a prize package from the Oneota Film Festival, with one winner to be drawn at the conclusion of the series.The first screening will take place Sunday, Feb. 1, with "Track Guy Movie" showing at 2 p.m. at the Cresco Theatre and Opera House. The documentary follows longtime track and field announcer Mike Jay, whose voice has been a staple at meets across Iowa and the Midwest for more than 30 years, including the Iowa High School State Track and Field Meet and the Drake Relays. The film also highlights the work of the Track Guy Foundation, which has supported athletes and promoted community involvement in track and field and cross country throughout the state. A second screening is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 15, when "When Maharishi Came to Town" will be shown at 2 p.m. at the Town Theatre in Waukon. The film explores the arrival of Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa, and the university's evolving relationship with the surrounding community over the past five decades. Following the winter screenings, the Oneota Film Festival will return to Decorah for its 16th annual event March 5-8, 2026. The festival will feature a wide range of independent films, with all events free and open to the public. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.