Indy Film Fest 2026 to Showcase Films from 17 Countries

The annual festival will feature 70 films, 5 world premieres, and over 15 Indiana-made movies.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:56pm

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring sharp, overlapping shapes in black, white, and red, conveying the vibrant energy and global scope of the Indy Film Fest.The 2026 Indy Film Fest promises a week of cinematic connection, where audiences immerse themselves in stories from around the world.Indianapolis Today

The 23rd annual Indy Film Fest is set to take place from April 22-26, 2026, showcasing 70 films from 17 countries. The festival will include 5 world premieres and feature more than 15 Indiana-made films, with 40 filmmakers in attendance. The opening night film is 'CAROLINE CAROLINE', a story about a young woman searching for her estranged mother alongside a charismatic con man.

Why it matters

The Indy Film Fest is a highly anticipated annual event that brings the local community together to experience diverse global cinema and support Indiana filmmakers. The festival's ability to attract international talent and premiere new works highlights Indianapolis' growing reputation as a hub for independent film.

The details

The Indy Film Fest will take place at various theaters in the KAN-KAN Cinema & Bar and Dance Kaleidoscope venues. Following the opening night film 'CAROLINE CAROLINE', there will be an afterparty at the Mayfair Taproom. In total, the festival will feature 70 films from 17 countries, including 5 world premieres and over 15 Indiana-made productions.

  • The Indy Film Fest will run from April 22 - 26, 2026.
  • The opening night film 'CAROLINE CAROLINE' will premiere on April 22, 2026.

The players

Indy Film Fest

An annual film festival held in Indianapolis, Indiana that showcases independent films from around the world and supports local filmmaking talent.

Dan Moore

The Executive Director of the Indy Film Fest, who is excited to bring the 23rd edition of the festival to Indianapolis.

CAROLINE CAROLINE

The opening night film of the 2026 Indy Film Fest, a story about a young woman searching for her estranged mother alongside a charismatic con man.

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What they’re saying

“We are looking forward to a week of cinematic connection, where audiences don't just watch stories, they feel them.”

— Dan Moore, Executive Director, Indy Film Fest

“I love the Indy Film Fest because it's a place where conversations spark and creativity takes center stage... or screen.”

— Dan Moore, Executive Director, Indy Film Fest

“We're excited to bring all of this back to Indianapolis for the 23rd year.”

— Dan Moore, Executive Director, Indy Film Fest

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Indy Film Fest will go on sale to the general public on March 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The Indy Film Fest continues to cement Indianapolis' status as a hub for independent cinema, bringing diverse global films and supporting local filmmaking talent. The 2026 edition promises an exciting lineup of premieres and screenings that will captivate audiences and foster creative conversations within the community.