Sarasota Film Festival 2026 Spotlights Independent and International Voices

The 28th annual festival runs April 10-19 with a diverse lineup of features, documentaries, and shorts.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Sarasota Film Festival is set to return in April 2026 for its 28th edition, featuring over 200 films across a range of genres and themes. This year's festival will spotlight independent films, international stories, and documentaries exploring local and global issues, with a focus on diversity and the environment.

Why it matters

The Sarasota Film Festival is a major cultural event in the region, drawing over 50,000 attendees annually and showcasing some of the best independent and international films of the year. The festival's diverse programming and emphasis on emerging talent provides a platform for underrepresented voices and unique perspectives.

The details

The 2026 Sarasota Film Festival will open with a mix of documentaries and narratives, including 'Deadly Deception at Sobibor,' 'Ain't No Back To a Merry-Go-Round,' and 'Speak.' Environmental films like 'River of Grass' and 'On the Frontlines of Hunger' will also be featured, along with special events like the Fantastical Street Party and filmmaker Q&As.

  • The 28th annual Sarasota Film Festival runs from April 10-19, 2026.
  • The annual Holiday Pass Sale kicked off in December 2025, offering 25-30% discounts on festival passes.

The players

Sarasota Film Festival

A major annual film festival in Sarasota, Florida that showcases over 200 films across a range of genres and themes, with a focus on independent and international cinema.

Ringling College of Art and Design

A local art and design college that partners with the Sarasota Film Festival to provide opportunities for students to engage with the film industry.

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What’s next

Filmmakers can submit their work for consideration in the 2026 Sarasota Film Festival, which is now accepting submissions.

The takeaway

The Sarasota Film Festival continues to be a premier destination for independent and international cinema, offering a diverse lineup of films and events that celebrate the art of storytelling and provide a platform for underrepresented voices.