Set in the heart of the historic market town of Market Harborough, the Harborough Film Festival celebrates independent filmmaking in a location rich with character, heritage, and community spirit. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Market Harborough provides a distinctive backdrop for filmmakers and audiences alike.

The festival showcases a diverse programme of films from across the world, championing bold storytelling, fresh voices, and creative risk-taking in all forms. From short films to features, documentaries to experimental work, we are proud to present an international selection that reflects the breadth and vitality of contemporary cinema.

Alongside our global outlook, the Harborough Film Festival places a special emphasis on films made in Leicestershire. We are passionate about supporting local filmmakers and highlighting the talent emerging from our region, offering a platform for Leicestershire-made films to be seen, celebrated, and shared with wider audiences.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or first-time visitor, the Harborough Film Festival invites you to experience world cinema in a uniquely historic setting.

Awards & Prizes

Best Short Film (Leicestershire)
Best Short Film
Best Actor
Best Director
Best DOP
Best Sound
Best Music composer

Rules & Terms

Harborough Film Festival – Submission Rules

Eligibility
The Harborough Film Festival is open to filmmakers worldwide.

All submitted films must have a total running time of 30 minutes or under, including credits.

Categories

Leicestershire Short Film
This category is open exclusively to films made in Leicestershire. To qualify, the film must have a clear and meaningful connection to the county (e.g. filmed in Leicestershire, made by a Leicestershire-based filmmaker, or produced by a Leicestershire production team).

Best Short Film
This category is open to all films made outside Leicestershire, including UK and international short films

Award Categories

Best Short Film

Leicestershire Short Film

Best Actor

Best Director

Best Director of Photography

Best Music

Best Sound

Submission Requirements

Films must be submitted in English or include English subtitles.

The submitter must hold all necessary rights for the film, including music, imagery, and performances.

Films that have previously screened elsewhere are eligible.

Selection & Screening

All submissions will be reviewed by the festival selection team.

The festival reserves the right to place films in the most appropriate category.

Selected films may be screened in person at the Harborough Film Festival and/or as part of festival-related events.

General

Submission fees are non-refundable.

By submitting, filmmakers grant the festival permission to use clips, stills, and promotional material for festival marketing and publicity purposes.