The 2026 Outwith Festival is open for submissions!

Our annual Short Film Night returns this September and we are calling for fresh Scottish shorts to screen a vibrant, dynamic, and thought-provoking programme of films.

Outwith has always featured an ambitious and entertaining film programme and 2026 will be no exception. It promises to be another exciting night of film and will offer the chance to meet and network with fellow filmmakers.

Founded in 2017, Outwith is an award winning, friendly music and arts festival that springs to life every September in the small but mighty city of Dunfermline. Outwith showcases emerging artists alongside established acts and brings quality cultural experiences to Scotland’s newest city. Outwith now attracts local, national and international visitors and has become an eagerly anticipated event in Scotland’s cultural calendar.

Awards & Prizes

If selected, your film will be screened at the Outwith Festival Short Film Night in September 2026 in Dunfermline. The Film Night will be promoted on the Outwith website, programme and social media.

Rules & Terms

Only films made in Scotland, or made by / featuring Scottish talent are eligible.

Films must be made within the last 2 years by filmmakers working, studying or living in the UK.

As a friendly and inclusive festival, we encourage submissions from filmmakers of all backgrounds. Everyone is welcome at Outwith.

Films should be under 15 minutes in length, but can be of any style, genre or theme.

Should your film be selected, you give us permission to screen your film at Outwith Festival in September 2026.

Filmmakers must obtain necessary licenses & clearances for their films. Outwith Festival WILL NOT hold any responsibility for copyright infringement.

Submitting a film gives us permission to use publicity stills provided and up to 30 seconds of footage for use in Outwith Festival marketing and publicity.

Films that do not fall within our criteria will not be watched.

3 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • matt james robinson

    Delighted to be part of this festival, with my film Portencross. Thanks !

    May 2026
    Helpful
  • Ewan McPherson

    This is an extremely good festival! The organisers selected an amazing array of high quality short films, and it was an absolute honour for 'My First Punk Gig - Derek's tale' to be amongst this. The communication was superb, venue and communication great - keep up the good work, folks!!

    September 2025
    Helpful
  • Robert Duncan

    Great festival! Friendly atmosphere, welcoming hosts and a great selection of films. The short film night is just one part of a range of excellent cultural events Outwith brings to Dunfermline. So really worth visiting.

    September 2025
    Helpful