April 9 - 18, 2026
submit your films now!
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Filmmakers love the Allentown Film Festival for its “smart, kind, film-loving folks” and its “efficiency and professionalism at all levels.” Enthusiastic audiences enjoy screening blocks in a gorgeously restored 1920s arthouse theatre from the golden age of cinema — “arguably the nicest venue I’ve ever been to.” “Engaging talkbacks and fun meet-the-filmmaker networking events” make the experience truly memorable. “Some films are even better than those featured at bigger cachet festivals.” Plus, you get a “super-cool medal”! Read additional enthusiastic reviews at FilmFreeway.com/AllentownFilmFestival, and submit your films today!
Allentown is only 60 miles from Philadelphia and 90 miles from New York City. In fact, many of North America's largest cities are less than a half-day’s drive away. The fourth annual Allentown Film Festival will take place from April 9 - 18, 2026 at two of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks: the Civic Theatre of Allentown and the Allentown Art Museum. We strive to expand the enthusiastic audience of moviegoers in Pennsylvania’s third-largest city and beyond and to promote outstanding films from Eastern Pennsylvania and around the world.
Make plans to attend the 2026 Allentown Film Festival!
Full schedule and ticket sales will be posted here on or before March 15, 2026.
Founded by award-winning filmmakers and educators, the Allentown Film Festival is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that brings the Independent Film Festival experience to Eastern Pennsylvania. Screening blocks of short and feature films are followed by Q&A panel discussions during which audience members interact with filmmakers. It’s an unmatched opportunity for artists to receive feedback and encouragement.
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk presents a medal to filmmaker Kwesa the Artist with Festival Director Alan Younkin.
Set amid gentle hills and charming countryside, the Lehigh Valley is a diverse area, home to Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, as well as dozens of small towns and picturesque boroughs, all peppered with parks, trails, and waterways ready to explore.
Steeped in pre-Colonial, early American, and industrial history, the region’s storied past defines its dynamic present, offering visitors everything from craft beer and covered bridges to museums and amusement parks.
Special Regional Filmmaker Prizes*
1-5 Min. Short Film Contest $1,000 Grand Prize*
1-5 Min. Short Film Contest $100 K-12 Student Prize*
1-5 Min. Short Film Contest $100 College Student Prize*
1-5 Min. Short Film Contest $100 Non-Student Filmmaker Prize*
* All genres welcome (scripted, unscripted, etc.)
* Open to filmmakers within a 100-mile radius of Allentown, PA
* Free to enter
* Entry deadline: February 15, 2026
* Multiple submissions by filmmakers encouraged
The annual Allentown Film Festival takes place each year in April at the Civic Theatre of Allentown and the Allentown Art Museum.
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