Phoenix Film Festival Returns for 26th Year

Annual event runs April 9-19 at Harkins Scottsdale 101 theater

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:51pm

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A bold, abstract composition of jagged, overlapping shapes in shades of red, orange, and yellow, conceptually representing the energy and excitement of a film festival.The 26th annual Phoenix Film Festival promises a diverse lineup of independent films and engaging industry events.Phoenix Today

The 26th annual Phoenix Film Festival is set to take place from Thursday, April 9 through Sunday, April 19 at the Harkins Scottsdale 101 theater. The festival will feature a variety of independent films, panels, and events over the 11-day run.

Why it matters

The Phoenix Film Festival is one of the largest film festivals in the Southwest, drawing thousands of attendees each year to celebrate independent cinema. The festival provides a platform for emerging filmmakers and helps bring the local film community together.

The details

The Phoenix Film Festival will showcase over 200 independent films across multiple screening blocks and feature filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, and networking events. Attendees can purchase festival passes or individual screening tickets to access the full lineup of programming.

  • The 26th annual Phoenix Film Festival runs from April 9-19, 2026.
  • The festival will take place at the Harkins Scottsdale 101 theater.

The players

Phoenix Film Festival

An annual film festival in Phoenix, Arizona that celebrates independent cinema and provides a platform for emerging filmmakers.

Harkins Scottsdale 101

A movie theater in Scottsdale, Arizona that will host the 26th annual Phoenix Film Festival.

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What they’re saying

“The Phoenix Film Festival is a must-attend event for any film lover in the Southwest. You'll see some of the most innovative and thought-provoking independent films of the year.”

— Scott Pasmore, Festival Spokesperson

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Phoenix Film Festival are on sale now through the festival's website. The full program of films and events will be announced in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Phoenix Film Festival continues to be a premier destination for independent cinema in the Southwest, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers and bringing the local film community together for 11 days of screenings, panels, and networking.