2026
NEW BEDFORD FILM FESTIVAL

APRIL 9-12, 2026

With the second annual New Bedford Film Festival behind us, we are ready for 2026!

April 9-12, 2026, we will celebrate bold and diverse cinematic stories and storytellers in the whaling city of New Bedford, Massachusetts!

Film lovers and makers, save these dates to experience the
New Bedford Film Festival for your first, second or third time!

We look forward to having you!

About the NBFF

Sponsors

The 2025 New Bedford Film Festival wrapped its inaugural year with a triumphant bow. Audiences reveled in a diverse film selection, sparking lively discussions and fostering connections between filmmakers and movie lovers.

Historic New Bedford was transformed into a celebration of cinematic storytelling infused within the city's vibrant art scene. NBFF's successes continues to pave the way for an even grander event in 2026.

Join us on the South Coast for another year of cinematic magic.

Important Dates

  • September 1, 2025 | Submissions Open!

  • September 28, 2025 | Early Bird Deadline

  • November 10, 2025 | Regular Deadline

  • December 21, 2025 | Late Deadline

  • February 12, 2026 | Official Selection Announcement

  • March 12, 2026 | Nominations Announcement

  • April 9-12, 2026 | 2nd Annual New Bedford Film Festival

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The New Bedford Film Festival showcases authentic and powerful cinematic stories, cultivates emerging storytellers, and promotes the city's growing creative economy.

Located in the vibrant South Coast region of Massachusetts, this annual festival is committed to showcasing diverse human experiences through various formats, including short and feature films, student shorts, music videos, episodic and documentary shorts, and PSA shorts.

The festival, which includes venues such as the New Bedford Harbor Hotel, Steeple Playhouse, Gallery X, and the New Bedford Art Museum, offers screenings and ample space for networking and panel discussions. Each evening, attendees are invited to network and celebrate the filmmakers, and different awards are presented.

The opening night event will be held at the Steeple Playhouse, where technical award winners will be recognized during the festivities. The closing Academy-award-style ceremony will award talent and the top award for each category.

Throughout the day, festival-goers are encouraged to explore the downtown area and take advantage of special promotions offered by local small businesses when presenting their official NBFF badge.

  • “The New Bedford Film Festival is a welcome addition to the city’s thriving arts and culture sector.”

    — Jon Mitchell | Mayor of New Bedford

  • "It’s a great draw for tourism as it attracts visitors to the city while also inspiring pride among the local community as the city’s landmarks and attractions transform into backdrops for local films."

    — Ashley Payne | Director of Tourism and Marketing for the City of New Bedford

  • "Join us in celebrating the vibrant creativity of filmmakers from New Bedford and beyond at our four-day event showcasing amazing screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities. Our goal is to grow New Bedford into an industry powerhouse, providing resources and support for local creators year-round.”

    — Ethan de Aguiar | Founder of New Bedford Film Festival