Experience Cinema Magic: Sedona International Film Festival Returns February 2026
Experience Cinema Magic: Sedona International Film Festival Returns February 2026One of the World's Coolest Film Festivals Brings Nine Days of Cinematic Excellence to Arizona's Red Rock Country
The red rocks of Sedona will once again roll out the red carpet as the 32nd Annual Sedona International Film Festival prepares to welcome film lovers from around the globe. Running February 21 through March 1, 2026, this acclaimed nine-day celebration of independent cinema continues to earn its place among the world's premier film festivals—recently named to MovieMaker Magazine's prestigious "25 Coolest Film Festivals" list for the second consecutive year.
For over three decades, the Sedona International Film Festival has been a cornerstone of our community's vibrant cultural landscape. What began in 1995 as a modest three-day showcase has evolved into the largest annual event in Sedona, drawing filmmakers, industry professionals, and passionate moviegoers to experience world-class cinema against the breathtaking backdrop of Arizona's Verde Valley.
"We're always excited to bring together filmmakers and audiences to enjoy the red rocks and the red carpet in Sedona," says Patrick Schweiss, Executive Director of the Sedona International Film Festival. "For over three decades now, we've strived to create a space for the independent spirit to thrive and grow, for big moments to occur on screen and off, and we're so grateful for the trust our audience has given us with our programming all these years."
A Festival That's Growing in Every Direction
The festival's reputation continues to soar among both audiences and creators. Film submissions and screenplay competition entries have doubled, while enthusiastic crowds consistently pack the Mary D. Fisher and Alice Gill-Sheldon theaters. These venues serve the community year-round, screening three to five films daily, seven days a week—a testament to Sedona's deep appreciation for cinematic arts.
During the 2026 festival, more than 150 films will grace local screens, spanning every genre and format imaginable: feature films, shorts, documentaries, animation, foreign films, and student productions. Each screening offers audiences the chance to explore diverse stories and perspectives from talented filmmakers worldwide.
"Part of what makes our festival so special for filmmakers is our enthusiastic and sold-out crowds," Schweiss notes. This energy creates an electric atmosphere where creators and audiences connect, often through Q&A sessions that take viewers behind the scenes and into the creative process.
Secure Your Festival Experience Now
With the festival's growing popularity comes increased demand for tickets. Advance ticket packages and passes go on sale today, December 1st at 10:00 AM MT at sedonafilmfestival.com. Options range from convenient 10-Ticket Packages to Platinum All-Access Passes, ensuring every level of film enthusiast can craft their ideal festival experience.
Act soon to take advantage of early-access discounts—these special rates expire December 31st, and early purchasers receive priority access to the most sought-after screenings.
A Calling for Filmmakers
Aspiring screenwriters still have time to enter the festival's screenplay competition, with the submission deadline set for December 31st. MovieMaker Magazine has also recognized SIFF as one of its "50 Film Festivals Worth The Entry Fee," highlighting the value and opportunity the festival provides to emerging and established filmmakers alike.
More Than Entertainment
The Sedona International Film Festival represents something deeper than nine days of screenings. It embodies a commitment to expanding cultural horizons, raising social consciousness, and creating space for meaningful dialogue. Through thoughtfully curated programming, filmmaker workshops, and educational seminars, the festival fulfills its mission to broaden understanding of the human condition while entertaining and inspiring audiences.
Whether you're a dedicated cinephile, a casual moviegoer, or someone seeking to experience Sedona's cultural richness, the 32nd Annual Sedona International Film Festival promises unforgettable moments where artistic vision meets red rock beauty.