The mission of the Lowell Asian American Film Festival is to inspire future generations of Asian American, Pacific Islanders (AAPI) filmmakers, increase access, and dismantle barriers as well as bringing together a collection of films to the public that elevate and highlight the rich stories of Asian American experiences. This year’s film festival will include a “short film” competition that includes narrative, documentary, animated and student short film categories.

Part of the festival's goals is to celebrate the vibrancy of Lowell’s diverse community as well as to promote Lowell as the arts and film destination.

Join us for this amazing cultural and cinematic experience as we screen short and feature films from across the country for a weekend celebrating art, culture, and diversity.

2026 Lowell Asian American Film Festival October 15 – 16

Click on the link below to purchase tickets online:
https://middlesex.universitytickets.com/w/?cid=168

Thursday, October 15th: 11am-9pm
Friday, October 16th: 12pm-9pm

Richard & Nancy Donahue Family Academic Arts Center
240 Central Street
Lowell, MA

Awards & Prizes

We will offer awards in four categories, including Best Short Narrative Film, Best Short Documentary, Best Short Animated Film, & Best Local Short Film Award. Winners receive a monetary award and a festival laurel.
*Best Short Narrative Film $250 Award
*Best Short Documentary Film - $250
*Best Short Animated Film - $100
*Best Student Short Film- $100

Rules & Terms

• Film must be about Asian American experience
• Film director, animator, or screenwriter must be Asian American.
• We are only accepting films that have been produced in the USA (and Puerto Rico).
• Film produced in the past three years only.
• No age limit, BUT children under the age of 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian.
• Films must be submitted before June 30, 2026.
• Any films that violate copyright law will be disqualified.
• Submitters/ Filmmakers will be solely responsible for any copyright infringement on their submitted films.
• Films in languages other than English must be subtitled.