Soil to Sky: Radical Hope for Kansas’s Food Future

Join us November 12-13, 2025 at Union Hall in Manhattan, Kansas for Kansas Food Action Network’s Annual Convening: Soil to Sky. This statewide gathering brings together food system leaders, community advocates, local food councils, policymakers, farmers, and all who are working to build equitable, sustainable food systems across Kansas.

This year’s convening invites us to lead with radical hope: to celebrate how far we’ve come, and to boldly expand what we believe is possible for Kansas’s food future

The Kansas Food Action Network exists to connect, empower, and mobilize across the state. Our annual convening is one of the most powerful ways we do that: by bringing people together in person. When we gather, share stories, and build partnerships, we strengthen our ability to move food systems change forward.

This convening is for anyone who cares about food in Kansas! Whether you’ve been involved in this work for decades, or you’re not totally sure what a food system is, we welcome you into the room!

  • Members of food and farm councils, health coalitions, or other grassroot organizations 

  • Nonprofits and advocates 

  • Farmers, producers, distributors, or agricultural stakeholders

  • Educators, extension agents, and researchers

  • Elected officials and policymakers


Attendance is free, but seating is limited

Register!

Annual Convening

Union Hall in Manhattan, KS

November 12th, 10am - 4:30pm & November 13th, 9am - 12pm


Attendees can expect inspiring and educational talks featuring voices from Kansas and beyond, as well as lightning talks highlighting efforts from communities across the state working to strengthen their local food systems. The event will also offer interactive, guided workshops designed for both communities and network organizations. Throughout the experience, there will be opportunities to build meaningful relationships with friends and peers while enjoying fantastic local food.

Attire: Casual

Harvest Dinner

Blue Sage Barn in Manhattan, KS

November 12th, 6:30 PM

New this year, Harvest is an intentionally curated dinner and networking event designed for local, state, and national food system leaders to connect, celebrate, and share in fellowship.

Join us for a farm-to-table dining experience prepared by Saltwell Farm Kitchen, led by James Beard–nominated chef Rozz Petrozz. Chef Rozz has carefully crafted a menu for HARVEST 2025 that celebrates the flavors, farmers, and stories of Kansas food.


Attire: Semi-formal

Lodging

Manhattan has numerous hotels, several of which are within walking distance of Union Hall in downtown.

KFAN has a limited number of lodging scholarships available for attendees who would otherwise be unable to attend. You may apply for a lodging scholarship in the registration form.

WALKING DISTANCE:

Fairfield Inn (.2 miles/ 5 minutes) 300 Colorado Street

Candlewood Suites by IHG (.4 miles/ 7 minutes) 210 Blue Earth Plaza

Holiday Inn Express and Suites  (.4 miles/ 7 minutes) 115 Blue Earth Plaza

DRIVING DISTANCE:

Holiday Inn at the Campus (5 minutes) 1641 Anderson Avenue