Wheatland director Lola Tyler to receive Lantern Bearer Award

After nearly four decades helping organize Wheatland's music, educational programs and traditional arts, Lola Tyler, executive director of the Wheatland Music Organization, will receive the 2026 Folk Alliance Region Midwest Lantern Bearer Award on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 13, following the Kids Parade during the Wheatland Music Festival at the Wheatland Music Organization grounds, 7251 50th Ave. in Remus. Courtesy of Lisa Vanwyckhouse REMUS — After nearly four decades helping organize Wheatland's music, educational programs and traditional arts, Lola Tyler said the years passed faster than she expected. Tyler, executive director of the Wheatland Music Organization, will receive the 2026 Folk Alliance Region Midwest Lantern Bearer Award on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 13, following the Kids Parade during the Wheatland Music Festival at the Wheatland Music Organization grounds, 7251 50th Ave. in Remus. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The award recognizes an individual, group or organization whose contributions have strengthened folk performance arts in the Midwest. 'I can't believe it's been that long. It's gone so fast,' Tyler said. 'It's not really a job if you love what you do and I love what I do.' The recognition comes as Tyler prepares for her final festival as Wheatland's executive director after about 40 years with the organization. She began as a volunteer, later served as business manager and eventually became executive director. Tyler also served Folk Alliance Region Midwest, known as FARM, for years as a board officer and treasurer. FARM is a regional branch of Folk Alliance International serving the Midwest. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Lantern Bearer Award is presented annually for contributions to folk performance arts across the region. 'It amazes me because I don't feel like I've done anything outstanding,' Tyler said. 'I've just done what I needed to do.' Tyler said she did not expect to be selected for the award. 'I was like, 'Why me? What did I do to deserve that?'' Tyler said. 'It just kind of blew my socks off.' Advertisement Article continues below this ad Wheatland's announcement credits Tyler with work involving the organization's festival, year-round educational programming, artist partnerships and volunteer community. Former Wheatland board President Greg Hoff said in the announcement that he worked with Tyler for decades as the organization developed. 'I have thoroughly enjoyed decades working with Lola as she helped to build WMO into one of the preeminent traditional music and arts organizations in the country,' Hoff said. 'I hope to continue our friendship as she moves to a less stressful role in the Wheatland family.' Wheatland President Jeff Baker also credited Tyler with playing a role in his development within the organization. Advertisement Article continues below this ad 'In the 20+ years that I have known Lola, words cannot describe how important she has been to my growth in the organization,' Baker said. 'Thank you, Lola.' Tyler said her approaching departure from the executive director position has brought mixed feelings after spending much of her life working with Wheatland. 'It's kind of bittersweet,' Tyler said. 'It's hard to think it's going to be the last festival that I'll be organizing.' Retirement will not end Tyler's involvement with Wheatland. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She plans to remain on the organization's community education committee, which works on senior and school programming as well as Traditional Arts Weekend. Tyler also plans to continue attending the festival. 'They know what they're doing and it'll continue to move forward,' Tyler said of the organization's leadership. 'I'll stay involved.' In the press release announcing the award, Tyler said the relationships formed through Wheatland have been among the most significant parts of her work. 'The most satisfying experiences have been all the many friendships that have developed over the years with all those involved with Wheatland Music,' Tyler said. 'Seeing the organization grow into what it has become, and to know that I had a hand in that, means more than I could ever put into words.' Advertisement Article continues below this ad The 53rd annual Wheatland Music Festival runs Sept. 11-13 on the organization's 160-acre grounds in Remus. The festival includes more than 50 musical acts along with workshops, dances, jam sessions, arts and crafts and activities for children and teens. Tyler said she plans to remain part of those activities even after leaving the executive director position. 'I just want to say thank you to Wheatland and FARM for believing in me,' Tyler said.