AFF will host a live festival on June 21st, 2026 in the Pillo Hotel with short film screenings, talks, live music and more! Awards for best shorts will be presented on the 21st with cash prizes. Not to be missed!

Cash prizes for best shorts.
Live screenings on festival day of selected and award winning shorts.
Laurels and certificates for selected films.

Rules & Terms
1.All film submissions should be made digitally in Pro-Res or MP4 formats, not via DVD’s in the post or via youtube/vimeo.
2. If selected to be showcased during the event, all screening copies must be received in advance of the festival screening which you will be given due notice.
3. All photos provided must be clearly identified. Photos may be used for any festival promotions.
4. Films which have been broadcast on Television, Cable or have had an international theatrical release prior to AFF are NOT eligible for any competition but may be screened, out of competition.
5. Non-English language produced films must have English subtitles or be dubbed in English. All entrants certify that they have been given full rights to use any and all music in their films.
6. Film Producers are responsible for insurance and shipment costs of films to AFF. The title of the work and name of entrant must be on all mailing containers, labels, can reels and film leaders.
7. Selected film entries will be notified by May 30th 2026 .Jury Award and audience award winners will be announced on June 21st at the festival awards ceremony in the Pillo Hotel, Ashbourne.
8. Filmmakers or screenwriters accepted and are attending the festival are responsible for travel, lodging, and all other expenses.
9. Filmmakers or screenwriters accepted into AFF26 will receive the following: Two(2) festival passes per submitted film to see all the festival films FREE
10. Film prints and other film material will be handled with upmost care. However, neither the AFF staff nor supporting theatre organisations staff can assume responsibility for damage or loss of the print and other film materials, en route or otherwise, during the course of the festival’s possession of the print.
11. All stated information, eligibility and submission guidelines, terms and conditions of entry, and entry information is subject to change by the Ashbourne Film Festival without notice.
12. Film titles, images, posters, excerpts and film publicity documentation and images may all be used by AFF. By entering the competition you consent to the use of such materials for promotion of AFF or to be shown at the event or at the awards ceremony

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Theresa King

    Really enjoyed taking part in this festival, felt welcomed, very inclusive group. So well organised and its reach spanned the local and the international, a range of all age groups and experiences. I hope it grows from strength to strength.

    June 2025
  • I had a fantastic time returning to the festival this year, and debuting my latest short film! A great selection of short films from talented people, lovely guest speakers and delightfully friendly hosts and atmosphere. Highly recommend!

    June 2025
  • Ruth Douglas

    Really friendly and welcoming festival, was a delight to be a part of it
    Thank you for having me!

    June 2025
  • My partner and I spent the day at the Ashbourne film festival on Saturday. Wow!! It was such a well put together event with a varied schedule which included a range of independently made short films as well as feature films, discussions, q&a's and networking opportunites. The organisers were so friendly and made time to chat with everyone

    June 2025
  • Really welcoming festival with a great, friendly team and a perfect venue at Vue Cinema Ashbourne. Was delighted to have my two short films Cut Off and Joey Had Never Been Out Of The City selected for screening alongside some great films.

    June 2025
    Response from festival:

    Thanks Richard and congratulations on both your films,wonderful to share them on the big screen ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️