Filmmakers love the Allentown Film Festival for its “smart, kind, film-loving folks” and its “efficiency and professionalism at all levels.” Enthusiastic audiences enjoy screening blocks in a gorgeously restored 1920s arthouse theatre from the golden age of cinema — “arguably the nicest venue I’ve ever been to.” “Engaging talkbacks and fun meet-the-filmmaker networking events” make the experience truly memorable. “Some films are even better than those featured at bigger cachet festivals.” Plus, you get a “super-cool medal”! Read additional enthusiastic reviews below.

Allentown is only 60 miles from Philadelphia and 90 miles from New York City. In fact, many of North America's largest cities are less than a half-day’s drive away. The fifth annual Allentown Film Festival will take place from April 15 - 18, 2027 at two of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks: the Civic Theatre of Allentown and the Allentown Art Museum. We strive to expand the enthusiastic audience of moviegoers in Pennsylvania’s third-largest city and beyond and to promote outstanding films from Eastern Pennsylvania and around the world.

Make plans to attend the 2027 Allentown Film Festival!
Full schedule and ticket sales will be posted here on or before March 15, 2027.

Founded by award-winning filmmakers and educators, the Allentown Film Festival is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that brings the Independent Film Festival experience to Eastern Pennsylvania. Screening blocks include a mix of short and feature films to enhance the audience experience. Screening blocks are followed by Q&A panel discussions during which audience members interact with filmmakers. It’s an unmatched opportunity for artists to receive feedback and encouragement.

About the Region
Set amid gentle hills and charming countryside, the Lehigh Valley is a diverse area, home to Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton, as well as dozens of small towns and picturesque boroughs, all peppered with parks, trails, and waterways ready to explore.
Steeped in pre-Colonial, early American, and industrial history, the region’s storied past defines its dynamic present, offering visitors everything from craft beer and covered bridges to museums and amusement parks.

We look forward to seeing you and your films at the Allentown Film Festival.

Submit your films today!

Awards & Prizes

Best Narrative Feature
Best Narrative Short
Best Documentary
Best Horror Film
Best Art-Related Film
Best Spanish-Language Film
Best Director
Best Actor
Best Actress

Rules & Terms

By submitting your film for consideration in the Allentown Film Festival (AFF), you hereby accept that you have the rights to the film and to authorize the film exhibition. You accept full legal responsibility for all intellectual property contained in the film and are granting AFF the right to utilize any and all parts of the film for promotional purposes online, in print, and any other medium we may see fit to promote AFF. By submitting your film for consideration in the Allentown Film Festival (AFF), you are authorizing AFF use of your work for promotion of and exhibition at the Allentown Film Festival.

By submitting this film, you indemnify and hold harmless the Allentown Film Festival and any of its affiliates, sponsors, agents, owners and employees of said entities from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages and expenses (including but not limited to attorney’s fees and costs of the court) which may be incurred by reason of any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, publicity, screening, and loss or damage to the screening videos entered.

You also accept that Allentown Film Festival is not responsible for obtaining any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property clearances that may be required for screening of your film. AFF reserves the right to edit the film/your work to adhere to community standards or time constraints.

Failure to adhere to any of these guidelines or any other guidelines for submission may result in dismissal from consideration.

The AFF venues and dates have been confirmed; however, we reserve the right to modify them in the event of unforeseen circumstances.
83 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
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Networking
  • Christopher Matthew Spencer

    We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to have "The Red Market" IG: @theredmarketfilm featured at your event. The entire team, from Brian Cutler Actors Studio to the dedicated students and alumni from Dodge College at Chapman University, appreciates your support and recognition. Being seen and celebrated by your audience is an honor we hold dearly.

    June 2026
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  • Benjamin Morehead

    Allentown Film Festival crew was amazing. They were a joy to work with and I'd highly recommend.

    May 2026
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  • Dmitriy Umanskiy

    Great people, amazing venue. It has been an honor and a pleasure to be nominated.

    May 2026
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  • MADGIO FILMS

    Very proud to have been an Official Selection with our short film Triggered at the Allentown Film Festival.

    Although I couldn’t attend in person, the selection process felt very professional and well-communicated.

    A solid festival experience from a submission standpoint, and I’d highly recommend it to other filmmakers looking for exposure and credible selection!

    May 2026
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  • Alexander Randolph

    Such a great experience to not only see my film on a big screen in such a beautiful space, but to also meet such great and talented people. I am so glad I submitted and was able to attend, highly recommend this festival.

    April 2026
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