The New Bedford Film Festival is returning for its third year, promising a four-day celebration of independent cinema.
The festival is set for April 9-12, 2026 and will showcase a diverse selection of films from local and international filmmakers, according to a community announcement.
Since its inception, the festival has focused on spotlighting authentic cinematic stories, cultivating bold storytellers and supporting New Bedford’s creative economy. This year’s event will feature screenings, industry panels and networking events, transforming various downtown venues into hubs of cinematic art.
Festival continues to grow
“We are incredibly excited to bring the festival back for a third year,” said Ethan de Aguiar, founder and president of the New Bedford Film Festival. “Each year, we’ve seen remarkable growth, and the quality of submissions continues to impress us. Our goal is to create a space where filmmakers are celebrated and supported, and where the community can experience the power of storytelling. The 2026 festival promises to be our biggest and most dynamic yet.”
Ethan de Aguiar is the founder of the New Bedford Film Festival.
Filmmakers are invited to submit their work for consideration. The festival accepts a wide range of categories, including narrative shorts, documentary shorts, music videos, web series and public service announcements.
The official submission period for the 2026 festival is now open, with a regular deadline of Nov. 10, 2025 and a late deadline of Dec. 21, 2025. The official selection announcement is set for Feb. 12, 2026. Submissions can be made exclusively through https://filmfreeway.com/NewBedfordFilmFestival.
What to expect
Attendees can look forward to a full schedule of events across multiple downtown venues, including the Steeple Playhouse, Gallery X and the New Bedford Art Museum. In addition to film screenings, the festival will feature a red carpet opening night, panels and Q&As, networking events and an awards ceremony.
The opening night will include a special screening and honoree presentation to kick off the festival. Panels and Q&As will provide opportunities for audiences to engage directly with filmmakers and industry professionals. All selected work will be screened at venues around the downtown area over the four days. Networking events, including social mixers and after-parties, will offer a casual setting for filmmakers and attendees to connect. The festival will conclude with an awards ceremony celebrating the best films in each category, presented in an Academy Award-style ceremony.
The New Bedford Film Festival is more than just a screening event; it’s a celebration of community, creativity and the collaborative spirit of filmmaking. Organizers invite everyone to join in April 2026 to discover new stories and support independent artists.
For more information, visit www.newbedfordfilmfestival.com.
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This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: New Bedford Film Festival returns April 9–12, 2026
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