Joshua Castaneda Takes Time 4 Hemp
A Minister, A Movie, and A Movement
Written by Casper Leitch
If there’s ever been a crossroads where ministry, film, and cannabis advocacy collide, it’s right here with Joshua R Castaneda. As a filmmaker, minister, and now helping the team of amazing people who are putting together Texas HempstaLK 2025, Castaneda is bringing an enlightened approach to the conversation around hemp and its historical significance.
Joshua Castaneda first made waves with 'KANEH MOVIE', a documentary exploring the deep historical and religious roots of cannabis. His film takes viewers on a journey through the biblical connections of hemp (Kaneh Bosem), its spiritual significance, and the voices of activists pushing for global acceptance. Whether you view cannabis as a medicinal plant, a divine gift, or simply the world's most misunderstood herb, 'KANEH MOVIE' presents a compelling case for its cultural and religious relevance.
Now, Castaneda is stepping into a new role as a supporting member of the organizing team behind Texas HempstaLK 2025, the latest iteration of the legendary Hempstalk Festival originally founded in Portland, Oregon. Set to take place Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-25, 2025) at Texas Music River Ranch, this event promises two days of education, music, advocacy, and celebration. Think of it as Woodstock, but with a much more informed discussion about sustainable agriculture and personal freedom.
Portland HempstaLK was founded in 2005 as an annual festival advocating for the decriminalization of cannabis for medicinal, industrial, and recreational use. The event was spearheaded by Paul Stanford, a well-known cannabis activist and founder of The Hemp and Cannabis Foundation (THCF).
The Evolution of HempstaLK
2005-2006: The first two HempstaLK festivals were held at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland, drawing around 10,000 attendees each year.
2007: The festival moved to Sellwood Riverfront Park, attracting nearly 20,000 people. Despite organizers insisting that smoking wouldn’t be tolerated, the unmistakable scent of cannabis lingered in the air.
2008: HempstaLK relocated to Eastbank Festival Plaza, incorporating educational panels alongside music and advocacy.
2009: The event shifted to Kelley Point Park, where attendance skyrocketed to 40,000 over two days.
2010s: HempstaLK continued to grow, but faced challenges securing permits due to concerns from city officials about cannabis consumption at the event.
2020s: The festival’s legacy persisted, inspiring new iterations of HempstaLK in different locations.
Texas Hempstalk: A New Beginning
Now, in 2025, HempstaLK is making a fresh start in Texas at the hands of the its new directors, Michael Kamp and Justin James Bridges, and is set to take place Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-25, 2025) at Texas Music River Ranch. This event carries the spirit of Portland HempstaLK forward, blending music, advocacy, and education to celebrate hemp’s role in sustainability, medicine, and culture. Michael and Justin are helping to shape this new chapter, ensuring that HempstaLK continues to be a platform for activism and enlightenment.
Texas HempstaLK 2025 is a community coming together to amplify the conversation about cannabis in a fun, festival-like atmosphere. There will be a lot of live music from amazing artists who are as passionate about hemp. There will be industry networking opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and cannabis advocates. The event also offers educational panels featuring experts discussing legalization, environmental benefits, and the future of hemp.
So mark your calendars, prepare for a weekend of enlightenment, and get ready for Texas HempstaLK 2025, where music, ministry, and cannabis meet for an unforgettable experience.
