The Nogales International Film Festival, hosted in both Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, and Nogales, Arizona, USA, is an international celebration of diversity and culture. It aims to bring art and hope to a city divided by a border wall. The festival's main event, FILM ON THE FENCE, utilizes both sides of the border wall to create a single cinema screen, hosting viewers on both sides.
Launched in 2010, the Nogales International Film Festival, also known as the Borderland Film Festival, seeks to reshape perceptions of border towns and strengthen connections between Nogales, Arizona, and Sonora. The festival showcases films that explore border issues, foster cross-cultural exchanges, and inspire and entertain, symbolizing hope and dreams. It welcomes all types of films and documentaries.
The festival features screenings on both sides of the US–Mexico border, underscoring the unifying power of culture and shared narratives. Since its inception, it has steadily grown, drawing diverse audiences and evolving through moments of challenge, including its creative adaptation during the 2020 pandemic. The 2025 edition marked a significant milestone, delivering its most impactful year yet. With record attendance, expanded programming, and renewed artistic energy, the festival strengthened the film and artist communities of both Nogales and the broader border region. Filmmakers from the United States and Mexico found new opportunities for collaboration, students gained visibility and mentorship, and local audiences experienced cinema that reflected their lived realities. This year reaffirmed the festival’s mission to use the border not as a divider, but as a place of connection, inspiring stories that entertain, enlighten, and build lasting cultural bridges across both nations.
Our festival offers a dynamic mix of indoor and outdoor screenings, educational workshops, and networking opportunities, creating an immersive experience for filmmakers and film lovers alike.
Festival Schedule
Tuesday, May 12th: Registration Night
The festival kicks off with our Registration Night, where filmmakers, attendees, and guests can check in, receive festival materials, and mingle during our welcome mixer.
Wednesday, May 13th: Student Showcase
The day is dedicated to showcasing the next generation of talent. Student films from local and regional schools will be screened, followed by Q&A sessions and a celebration of young filmmakers.
Thursday, May 14 – Saturday, May 16: Film on the Fence
Our signature event, Film on the Fence, features stunning outdoor screenings projected onto a historic section of the U.S.-Mexico border fence. This one-of-a-kind cinematic experience runs each evening, offering a truly unforgettable setting under the stars.
Saturday, May 16th: Closing Night
Join us for the final Film on the Fence screenings and a celebratory closing night party to conclude this incredible week.
Daily Indoor Screenings
Films from around the world will be screened throughout each day at our indoor venue providing a traditional theater experience for attendees.
Workshops and Networking Events
Each day, industry professionals will lead hands-on workshops and Q&A's. Dedicated networking sessions allow filmmakers and attendees to build connections and foster collaborations.
Sunday, May 17th: Binational Screenings
Experience the culmination of the Nogales International Film Fest with our special binational showcase. On this day, all films will switch sides of the border, U.S. selections will screen in Nogales, Sonora, and Mexican selections will screen in Nogales, Arizona. Join us at the GOK Theater in Nogales, AZ and at Imfoculta in Nogales, Sonora for a truly unique cross-cultural cinematic exchange.
Why Attend?
The Nogales International Film Fest is more than just a celebration of film; it’s a platform for storytelling that bridges cultures, highlights regional voices, and inspires the next generation of creators. As we expand the festival into a nationally recognized event, we aim to shine a spotlight on the border cities of Nogales and elevate them onto the global stage, positioning the festival to stand alongside major international events such as Sundance and SXSW. Attendees can expect engaging discussions, exciting film premieres, and an unforgettable cultural experience in the vibrant community of Nogales.
Join us for this extraordinary event that blends art, education, and connection in one of the most unique settings imaginable.
Laurels will be send out to all accepted films. Special Laurels will be reserved for Film on the Fence accepted films.
