The CAPITAL CITY FILM FESTIVAL's (CCFF) mission is to celebrate artists from around the world by curating outstanding multimedia experiences for our community. Our festival is a 10-day party with opportunities to connect with artists from around the world *and* Michigan filmmaking legends at mixers and Q&As throughout. We showcase an eclectic mix of traditional and experimental films, telling stories ranging from the dramatic to the fantastic. Live musical performances, interactive media, and many other art forms are painted throughout our program. Every year, the Capital City Film Festival creates memorable and enriching experiences for our audiences, artists, and volunteers.

The 16th annual CCFF takes place April 8-18, 2026 in several venues across Lansing, MI and kicks off with a dynamic Red Carpet Premiere Party. Come be part of the Midwest's best!

*Oh yea - we're on that hotlist: "25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World": https://www.moviemaker.com/the-25-coolest-film-festivals-in-the-world-2018/9/

*2025 CCFF Recap: https://vimeo.com/1089873318
*2025 CCFF Sizzle: https://vimeo.com/1061601016

We offer juried prizes for the top selection in three categories:
*Best Narrative Feature
*Best Documentary Feature
*Best Short Film

The Fortnight Film Contest gives Michigan-based teams two weeks to create an original short film, 10 minutes or less. We play the top films during a screening at the festival and give away $5,000+ in cash prizes. A "don't miss" event at the Capital City Film Festival!

-Works in progress are not accepted.
-Submissions must have been produced since January 2024 and be a mid-Michigan area premiere at minimum (Michigan-wide premieres are preferred.)
-Submissions received without the proper entry fee will not be considered.
-Entries must be in English or subtitled in English.
-See submission category guidelines for details on genre and length requirements for submission.

Other Details:
-Screening copies of selected films (digital files, Blu-Rays or DVDs) MUST be received at least 4 weeks prior to the festival, which begins April 8, 2026. Digital files strongly preferred.

Submitting this project means I have read all of the Capital City Film Festival (CCFF) rules. I understand and have complied with these rules.

I warrant the submission of my original work and there are no disputes regarding the ownership of the submission. I also warrant the submitted material does not defame or invade the rights of any person living or dead and I fully indemnify CCFF against any claim made for such violations of law.

To the best of my knowledge, all of the statements herein are true and correct.

I understand that failure to adhere to CCFF's rules will result in disqualification and no refunds of any kind will be made.

I agree to hold CCFF harmless from and defend them against all claims, demands, losses, damages, judgments, liabilities, and expenses (including attorney’s fees) arising out of or in connection with any and all claims of third parties, whether or not groundless, based on any film submitted to CCFF. I understand that a high quality festival screening copy of my film must be provided no later than 4 weeks prior to April 8, 2026.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • This festival is a class act in every way. I especially loved the programming of my block - it was all distinct and yet cohesive. Very friendly and communicative organizers. Will submit future work here for sure!

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Loved your film, Clare - really daring and surprising. Best of luck and hope to see you back here!

  • I had so much fun at CCFF! Their communication and overall hype energy of the festival is top-tier. I highly recommend capital city to any filmmaker they genuinely value your work and time. XDD

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Thank you Faith, hope to see you back in Lansing again!

  • Dusty Saunders

    Capital City is such a great festival. Friendly team and awesome lineups!

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Dusty, your film screening was one of a kind! Keep up the amazing work and looking forward to see what you cook up next.

  • Brett Salamin

    Our team had a blast screening “Waves” at CCFF this year! If you're looking for a festival that actually treats filmmakers right, this is it. The programming team was incredibly chill and communicative. We never felt left in the dark—they were helpful every step of the way. The festival was super well-organized and, more importantly, packed. There’s nothing better than a full house of engaged movie-lovers.
    Huge thanks to Capital City for having us. We’re already plotting our return!

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Yesss, thanks Brett! Hope to see you back in Lansing!

  • Excellent fest, they did a great job communicating with us and promoting on social media! I couldn't be there in person, but after seeing how cool it was, I really wish I could've been there! Thanks again for showing my film, would definitely recommend submitting to CCFF.

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Thanks Olivia, loved your film's style and hope to see you submit again in the future—we'd love to welcome you to Lansing!