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Denver Film Festival
October 22nd – November 1st, 2026
Discover one of the region’s largest film festivals, celebrating cinema with screenings, parties, award winners, and more.
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How Do You DFF?
Some people spend months building the perfect schedule. Others are here for the red carpets, the parties, and the buzz. Maybe you’re joining us for the very first time, or maybe you already know exactly which venue is your favorite.
Whether you’re planning to catch one unforgettable film or immerse yourself in everything the festival has to offer, there’s a pass designed for all the ways you can DFF.
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Explore the Program
Each year, the DFF team, led by Artistic Director Matt Campbell, pores through thousands of submissions to bring you the best in independent, international, and emerging cinema. Our program celebrates bold filmmakers, unexpected stories, and diverse perspectives, giving Denver audiences the chance to discover new films and artists.
More Than Movies
At DFF, the celebration doesn’t stop when the credits roll — parties, receptions, conversations and Q&A’s run all festival long.
Parties
When the credits roll, the party is just getting started. Come together with cinephiles, filmmakers, and the wider film community of Denver for nights filled with new experiences, unexpected connections, and a whole lot of fun. Parties will be announced on October 3rd with our program.
Filmmaker Lounge
Everyone needs a place to kick back. That’s why Denver Film has partnered with Dormer Harpring to bring you the Dormer Harpring Lounge. Here, passholders can relax, recharge, and connect with fellow festivalgoers.
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In Competition Awards
Films eligible for competition can win prestigious awards like the True Grit Award, Krzysztof Kieslowski Award for Best Feature Film, Maysles Brothers Award for Best Documentary, Audience Award, plus a slew of awards for short films!
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Honorary Awards
With awards like the John Cassavetes Award, the Rising Star Award, and many others, the Denver Film Festival honors the legends who have shaped the industry.
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Festival Venues
The Denver Film Festival isn’t just the place where Coloradans connect with the larger world of cinema; it’s also where the broader film industry gets to experience all that Denver has to offer. The Denver Film Festival is proud to partner with venues across Denver that represent the deep roots of the arts community in our city.
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Plan Your Festival
Coming up with the right plan for your festival can be stressful. We’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide on all things DFF!
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Colorado Spotlight
We love showcasing Colorado’s voice to the world! Colorado has always been home to big ideas and bold storytellers. The Colorado Spotlight celebrates filmmakers making their mark right here at home, bringing their stories to the big screen and giving Denver audiences a chance to discover the incredible talent from their own backyard.
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A Festival With History
Founded in 1978, the Denver Film Festival was one of the first film festivals in the country. Now, in its 49th year, the Festival is an annual celebration of cinema that takes place in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado.
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
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Media Partners
Additional Thanks
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Proudly Funded by
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Get Involved
Becoming a Denver Film member not only gets you great discounts on DFF passes, it also affords you cheaper concession prices, early access to ticketing, exclusive member previews, and much more!
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Are You a Filmmaker?
Made something you think belongs on the big screen? We want to see it. Each year, the Denver Film Festival team views thousands of submissions in search of films that deserve to be discovered. Submit your work and join filmmakers from Colorado and around the world at one of the country’s longest-running film festivals.