Announcing the eagerly awaited 2026 Maryland Children's Environmental Film Festival (MCEFF), soon to be inviting entries for the annual curated film screening!

Last season was an unforgettable cinematic experience set amidst the charm of Old Ellicott City, Maryland. Screenings unfolded at the whimsically delightful Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar, a beloved fixture in the heart of the historic town in Howard County.

This was a captivating showcase of environmental storytelling as clips from selected films graced the walls of this over-the-top milkshake haven. Guests sipped on their milkshake masterpieces, taking in the silent film display, and offering a moment of serene reflection amidst the bustling excitement.

The 2026 MCEFF location will soon be announced.

MCEFF was made possible in 2023 and 2024 with a grant provided by Jane Goodall Institute's Roots and Shoots programs. The grant committee was impressed with our commitment to building a better world for animals, people, and the environment. We challenge children to make films about environmental issues to encourage a wider audience to care about and understand them.

Films are typically accepted by filmmakers who fit one of the following age levels: 8 to 10 years, 11 to 13 years, 14 to 17 years, and adults. Please note that these are the ages of the filmmakers, not the intended audience.

There is also a category for Maryland filmmakers between the ages of 8-17 who currently reside in Maryland, filmed their movie in Maryland, or have a close Maryland connection. Please add a note explaining your connection to Maryland. Filmmakers may enter their age category and the Maryland category if they qualify for both and would like to be considered for either category.

Films should cover an environmental topic that benefits the earth, people, or animals. Some example topics would include sustainability, wildlife, and recycling.

Awards & Prizes

There will be an award winner in each category, if there are sufficient entries in that category.

Age 8-10
Age 11 to 13
Age 14 to 17
Maryland Filmmaker (age 8-17)
Adult Filmmakers

Rules & Terms

1. Films will be shown to an audience of children and may not contain any of the following: violence, excessive anger, profanity, hate speech, praise for a specific religious, or suggestive behavior. MCEFF reserves the right not to select your film it it contains content from these categories. MCEFF promotes a safe, friendly movie-watching experience for student audiences of all ages.

2. If your film is selected, you will not receive a screening fee.

3. All films must be in English or have English subtitles.

4. Limit one entry per person/group.

5. Soundtrack music must be royalty-free. By entering, you agree that you have the rights to all content, and that any liability falls to you, not the film festival.

6. If you enter, you agree to have segments of your film, publicity films, summary, and/or director biography shared on our website and/or social media.

7. Student ID must be included in application. The film director and/or producer must be in the age category listed. The entry will be disqualified if the age cannot be verified.

8. MCEFF reserves the right to change the date or location, or screen films virtually.
3 Reviews
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  • Goran Šporčić

    Great Festival! Thank you for everything.

    August 2023
    Helpful
  • Asher Anantham

    Great opportunity for young fimmakers

    August 2023
    Helpful
  • Pawel Grajnert

    Great festival. Wonderful people. Super experience.

    August 2023
    Helpful