Coastal Roots Farm will screen two short films about rock climbing, healing and social justice on Thursday, Sept. 24, as part of its Farm Film and Music Series.
The evening pairs "Rock Faced It All," a 17-minute documentary about a woman who took up climbing after a Parkinson's disease diagnosis, with "What the Hands Do," which follows two climbers exploring the sport as a tool for community connection. Gates open at 6 p.m. Live music by Emma Sullivan and community tabling fill the early hours, followed by a panel discussion at 7:30 p.m. and the screening at 8 p.m.
"Rock Faced It All," directed by Clare Bennett and Isabela Zawistowska, tells the story of Teresa Bennett, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's at age 64. Within a year she was scaling 60-foot walls, according to the Mountainfilm Festival, which featured the film during its 2026 edition in Telluride, Colorado. Bennett has been central to the growth of Up Ending Parkinson's, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides guided rock climbing for people living with the disease.
The second film, "What the Hands Do," follows climbers Mariana Mendoza and Miguel Casar, described in the event listing as lifelong social justice advocates. The film asks how climbing can create opportunities for growth and connection in underserved communities.
The Farm Film and Music Series is a seasonal program highlighting environmental and social issues through documentary screenings, live music and discussion. Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and low-back chairs.
Tickets cost $12 in advance or $18 at the door. Proceeds support the farm's mission of community nourishment and environmental sustainability education. When CEO Kesha Dorsey's appointment was announced in July, she described the farm's work as sitting at the intersection of land, justice, Jewish wisdom, education and community, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
Upcoming Encinitas community dates:
- Thursday, Sept. 24: Farm Film and Music Series at Coastal Roots Farm, 6 p.m.
- Leucadia Streetscape construction continues on Highway 101
- Encinitas citywide zoning code review open through early October
