Pella’s municipal internet and TV utility rallied a volunteer group of writers, directors, cinematographers, actors and extras to produce a Hallmark-style short film.

The Pella Fiber production titled “The Spirit of Pella Christmas” premiered Friday on YouTube. Recently named one of ten “festive Christmas towns [that] feel like a Hallmark movie” by Midwest Living, Pella’s latest designation prompted Pella Fiber to collaborate with a local nonprofit, Spirit of Pella, to assist with production.

“When Midwest Living’s article was posted, we knew the timing was right” said Christi Vander Voort, Spirit of Pella board president.

Vander Voort persuaded a friend, Nashville screenwriter and director of two feature films, Jamey Durham, to write the script and direct the romantic comedy which features Nick and Emily, who rekindle their young love at Christmastime against the backdrop of Pella’s Vermeer Windmill, the Tunnel of Lights in Central Park, horse-drawn carriage rides, Cheesemaker’s Inn and Christmas shopping in downtown Pella shops.

The short film was produced by Pella Fiber’s programming coordinator Monte Goodyk and is posted for free viewing on the Pella Fiber and Spirit of Pella’s social media accounts and is also available on YouTube.