Sitar Arts Center is excited to present its 2026 third annual Set in DC Film Festival, “The Unknown: Inspiring transformation during times of uncertainty.”

Throughout our lives, we are faced with the unknown. Though we have no control over what lies ahead, we can choose to act on hope, fear, acceptance or any other emotion. We invite films that explore individual or collective transformation in times of uncertainty.

Don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your work on the big screen at Sitar Arts Center in Washington, D.C.!

This festival is open to filmmakers of all levels between the ages of 10-24 years old.

Mark Your Calendars! Films will be shown on May 8, 2026, at Sitar Arts Center at 1700 Kalorama Rd NW, STE 101 Washington, DC 20009, from 6-8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. All accepted filmmakers and their families are encouraged to attend.

Awards & Prizes

Winning films will be featured during select summer 2026 screenings of Adams Morgan Movie Nights, hosted by the Adams Morgan Partnership BID.

Prizes per Age Category:

Junior Youth Category (Ages 10-14)
First Prize $75
Second Prize $25

Youth Category (Ages 15-19)
First Prize $125
Second Prize $75

Young Adult Category (Ages 20-24)
First Prize $200
Second Prize $100

Rules & Terms

All films will be peer reviewed by an initial jury of Sitar's Emerging Arts Leaders to determine entry into the festival.
Once reviewed, all films will be judged by professional filmmakers and critics.
Films will be judged based on adherence to submission criteria, originality, and storytelling.
Filmmakers will be notified of acceptance by April 30, 2026.

Selected filmmakers under the age of 18 will need to obtain written parental/guardian consent to participate in the Film Festival.

CRITERIA:
-Films must be shot or set in Washington, D.C.
-Films should be no longer than 15 minutes long
-Films should be related to the theme of “The Unknown: Inspiring Transformation During Times of Uncertainty.”
-Film subject matter and content must be appropriate for a community of ALL ages (PG)