The Fredericksburg Film Festival (FFF) celebrates independent cinema, spotlighting films that are creative, daring, and refreshingly off the beaten path. Since our debut in 2024, FFF has stood out among Virginia’s film festivals for curating bold lineups that prove great storytelling transcends budget and formula.

At FFF, we believe the true power of a film isn’t found in the equipment, but in the vision of the filmmaker who brings it to life. Even when created on modest budgets, these films defy mainstream conventions and stand out through their creativity and originality.

FFF 2026 will feature screenings, panels, workshops, and mixers across multiple venues in historic Downtown Fredericksburg—creating an engaging, collaborative space for filmmakers and film lovers alike. The festival highlights storytellers from Virginia and beyond, many of whom will join us in person to share their work and experiences.

Key Dates
• Final Deadline: January 31, 2026
• Notification Date: February 28, 2026
• Festival Dates: June 25–28, 2026

Submissions are now open on FilmFreeway, and tickets will be available at fxbgfilmfestival.com once the lineup is announced. For questions, email us at fredericksburgfilmfestival@gmail.com.

Whether you’re a filmmaker or a film enthusiast, FFF is your chance to experience a one-of-a-kind celebration of independent cinema and connect with a vibrant creative community.

Awards & Prizes

- Best Narrative Feature
- Best Documentary Feature
- Best Narrative Short
- Best Documentary Short
- Best Virginia Film
- Audience Choice
- Best Directing
- Best Actor
- Best Actress
- Best Supporting Actor
- Best Supporting Actress
- Best Cinematography
- Best Editing
- Best Production Design
- Best Sound

Rules & Terms

Fredericksburg Film Festival (FFF) does not require premiere status for selected films.

Submissions of works-in-progress are accepted; however, a final cut must be delivered before the festival.

Publicity materials will only be requested after official selections are announced.

FFF reserves the right to use clips (up to three minutes) from accepted films for promotional purposes.

All films must have been completed on or after January 1, 2023.

FFF does not pay screening fees. Any film requiring a licensing fee will not be eligible for selection or awards.
13 Reviews
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Networking
  • hunter christy

    I had such a great time attending the Fredericksburg Film Festival. I was honored that my project, "909," was chosen. But, more than that, I was surprised at how perfectly curated the festival was - EVERY piece that I got to see was beautiful, poignant, funny, inspiring. Thank you so much for bringing such a diverse and beautifully chosen festival to Fredericksburg.

    July 2026
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  • Tejan Sesay

    This was actually a lot less nerve-wracking than I was expecting. The host/person who was asking us questions, was really nice and made it easy to relax.

    July 2026
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  • Zoë Mulraine None

    Had an excellent time at this festival and highly recommend to filmmakers!

    July 2026
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  • Navida Stein

    So honored to have Thumbprint Cookies as a part the 3rd annual Fredericksburg Film Festival. This festival is a gem! So are the people who run it - Dalton, Wa'ad, Antonella & Carlos.
    The FFF team are passionate about celebrating filmmakers and their films. I loved participating in the Q&A from my film - there was rich audience engagement.
    My husband/co-producer and I had a fabulous time watching a diverse selection of films, attending Austin Bunn's writing workshop and taking some time to explore what downtown Fredericksburg has to offer - incredible restaurants, antique and art shops and American history.
    It's incredible that this is the 3rd year of the festival. It is so well run, everyone is friendly and helpful from the team to the volunteers and communication from beginning to end was stellar. I made some wonderful connections with other filmmakers. Their logo is "Cinema Connects" and this festival does that 100%.
    I look forward to submitting to the Fredericksburg Film Festival next year.

    July 2026
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  • Timothy Parsons

    This is one of my favorite festivals I have attending, from the very communicative and caring staff to the incredible line up of films that they put together. I can't wait to go back next year.

    May 2025
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