A Festival's Journey to the Catskills
The Catskill International Film Festival (CIFF) is an international platform dedicated to discovering and celebrating exceptional independent cinema. Since 2018, CIFF has showcased a curated selection of films, television pilots, music videos, and emerging media from around the world—championing bold storytelling, artistic innovation, and distinctive new voices.
Set in the historic and scenic Catskill Mountains of New York, within reach of New York City, CIFF offers filmmakers and audiences a festival experience that is both culturally rich and creatively energizing. The festival brings together artists, industry professionals, and film lovers in an environment designed to foster meaningful connection, conversation, and discovery.
CIFF presents a hybrid festival format, offering both in-person and virtual access to expand global participation while preserving the excitement and impact of the theatrical experience. Selected projects may receive live and virtual exhibition opportunities, increasing visibility and audience reach while creating opportunities for meaningful engagement.
2026 Festival Experience
For 2026, CIFF is placing special emphasis on creating a uniquely immersive and thoughtfully designed festival experience. This year’s event will feature intricate programming curated so that guests can fully experience everything the festival has to offer across an exciting three-day weekend at the beautiful Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre in Hurleyville, New York.
Shaped by attendee feedback and filmmaker priorities, the 2026 edition is designed around what matters most: authentic networking opportunities, engaging workshops, vibrant celebrations, and powerful, current films that challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what cinema can be.
The festival experience includes red carpet premieres, curated screening programs, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, workshops, and industry networking events. Official selections are chosen through a competitive review process led by the festival’s programming team, with selected works presented to engaged audiences and film industry representatives.
At its core, CIFF is committed to creating a platform where emerging and established filmmakers alike can share their work in a setting that values artistic excellence, audience engagement, and professional opportunity.
Our History
Founded in 2018, CIFF began with a curated showcase at SUNY Sullivan, featuring a diverse slate of local and international films alongside interdisciplinary programming that included visual art and live performance. From the beginning, the festival has emphasized both creative ambition and community engagement.
Later that year, CIFF expanded into the historic Callicoon Theater and Western Hotel, establishing a strong presence within the region’s cultural landscape. These venues offered an intimate yet distinguished backdrop for screenings, live events, and filmmaker interaction.
As the festival has grown, CIFF has continued to collaborate with notable venues such as the Paramount and Rivoli Theatres, strengthening its reputation as a destination for independent film in the Catskills.
Today, CIFF remains dedicated to supporting filmmakers through thoughtfully curated exhibition, meaningful professional connection, and a festival audience eager to discover new work.
