DC/DOX is a major international film festival in the US capital dedicated to promoting documentary film as a leading art form, championing new voices and innovations in non-fiction storytelling, and using film as a catalyst to engage the most compelling issues of our day.

The festival's fifth edition is scheduled for June 10-13, 2027, in marquee venues across Washington, DC. It will showcase 100+ exceptional documentaries from around the world, representing the best the form has to offer, from emerging and established filmmakers alike, and encompassing diverse themes, perspectives, and artistic styles. All film screenings are followed by Q&As with the filmmakers, moderated by prominent journalists, industry luminaries, and subject-area experts.

DC/DOX provides abundant networking opportunities and social events over its four-day duration, in addition to a series of panels, master classes, and workshops offered within the "Reality Check" forum.

Rules & Terms

* Feature documentaries have a running time of 40 minutes or longer.
* Short documentaries have a running time of 39 minutes or less.
* Eligible films must have been completed on or after January 1, 2026.
* Eligible films must be, at minimum, Washington, DC premieres.
* Eligible films should not be available on nationwide streaming platforms or in theatrical release prior to their DC/DOX festival screening.
* Only filmmakers based in the Washington, DC metropolitan area are eligible to apply for the DC/FRAME program.
* DC/DOX does not pay screening fees. Instead, the festival provides travel and hospitality support for one representative from each selected film to attend, participate in post-screening Q&As, and take part in the festival's industry programs and events.
* If selected, it is expected that the director or a key member of the filmmaking team will attend the festival to represent the film.
14 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Mark Becker

    This was such a filmmaker-friendly festival, and was run with incredible professionalism and care. We had an ideal screening and attendee experience, and feel thankful to the DC/DOX team.

    June 2026
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  • Sharon Liese

    Such a top tier festival with meticulous and thoughtful organizers. Great films and filmmakers with time to connect.

    June 2026
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  • Shellée Haynesworth

    Screening Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps at DC/DOX was an incredible honor. To share this documentary in my hometown of Washington, DC — and with the local and national filmmaking community — made the experience deeply meaningful. The DC/DOX team was not only highly organized but also genuinely supportive, creating the perfect environment to showcase Camille’s groundbreaking artistry and the transformative power of dance. I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring this work home, connect with fellow DC creatives, and feel the warm embrace of such an engaged, passionate audience.

    August 2025
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  • Kendra Pittman

    Loved this festival from top to bottom! So many thoughtful films, filmmakers, and panels that I was so happy to attend. Loved screening my short doc in this festival

    June 2025
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  • Cara Yeates

    This festival is an absolute gem. The programming is stellar. There were numerous excellent panels and industry professionals in attendance. The parties were great. They even provided generous travel support to us as short filmmakers, which is rare. We hope to return someday.

    June 2025
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