2026 Festival Experience
October 9th - 11th
Hurleyville Arts Centre
In 2026, CIFF is doubling down on what makes a film festival unforgettable: not just the films on screen, but the atmosphere, energy, and sense of discovery that surrounds them.
Set against the backdrop of the beautiful Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre in Hurleyville, New York, this year’s festival is being shaped as a fully immersive three-day experience—one designed with intention, depth, and the kind of momentum that keeps audiences, artists, and industry guests engaged from opening night to final curtain.
Guided by attendee feedback and filmmaker priorities, the 2026 edition places its focus where it matters most: meaningful connection, dynamic conversation, artistic celebration, and bold contemporary cinema. The result is a festival experience that feels both elevated and alive—where authentic networking opportunities sit alongside thought-provoking workshops, vibrant social events, and films that challenge convention, spark dialogue, and expand the possibilities of the medium.
Across the weekend, guests can expect a carefully curated lineup of red carpet premieres, screening programs, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, workshops, and industry networking events—all designed to create not just a schedule, but a true festival ecosystem. Each official selection is chosen through a competitive review process led by CIFF’s programming team, with selected works presented to engaged audiences and film industry representatives in an environment built to champion discovery and conversation.
At its core, CIFF remains committed to creating a space where emerging voices and established filmmakers can meet on equal creative ground: a platform that celebrates artistic excellence, invites meaningful audience engagement, and opens the door to real professional opportunity.
In 2026, CIFF isn’t simply presenting films—it’s creating the kind of festival experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Film Submissions Open
April 1st, 2026
The Early Bird Gets The Worm… Or So They Say!
Filmmakers, get ready — CIFF 2026 submissions officially open on FilmFreeway April 1st.
If you’ve got a story to tell and a film you believe in, now’s the time to make your move.
Submit early for the best rates, follow the rules, and send us your strongest work.
Because when you submit to CIFF, the world is watching.
You do not want to miss the celebration this year!
Every year, we hear the same thing after the festival:
“I wish I made it.”
“It looked incredible.”
“I can’t believe I missed it.”
Not this year.
The Catskill International Film Festival returns October 9–11, 2026 — and this is your sign to SAVE THE DATE now.
This year, CIFF is bigger, bolder, and built for the full experience. Expect world premieres, award-winning films from around the globe, unforgettable red carpet events, exciting networking opportunities, music, entertainment, and a schedule designed so All Access Pass holders can truly experience it all.
But more than that — this year is about being part of it.
A LOVELY LOOK INTO OUR PAST
Catskill International Film Festival (CIFF) is honored and thrilled to be back for another year! Our screenings will be both in-person and digital (Virtual) to accommodate attendees no matter where they are.