There are few things that go together better than independent film and the independent spirit of a small Texas town. Which is exactly why we choose to hold the Hill Country Film Festival in Fredericksburg. And, when the films are finished, we couldn’t think of a better town to explore for our filmmakers and patrons. Because here, you’ll find everything from museums and historical sites to shopping, outdoor adventures, great German food, over 60 wineries and more.

Created to celebrate and showcase filmmakers from Texas and around the world, the festival began in 2010. In addition to screening independent films, both short and feature length, HCFF hosts filmmaker Q&A/interviews, discussion panels, a VIP lounge and festival parties.

HCFF welcomes films in the form of features (recommended between 90-120 minutes) and shorts (recommended under 30 minutes), along with documentaries in either form.

Cinema Dulce Award (Best of Fest)*
Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Director
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Student Film
Best Texas Film*
Best Documentary
Audience Choice Award

*Cash prizes will be given to winners of the festival’s Cinema Dulce - Best of Fest ($1,500) and Best Texas Film ($1,000) awards sponsored by Texas’ premier boutique winery Pedernales Cellars.

Pedernales Cellars has a long-standing commitment of supporting the development of regional arts organizations, especially those with a strong educational mission. Through these awards, Pedernales Cellars looks to extend its support to include excellence in independent filmmaking for the benefit of the Texas Hill country community and beyond.

1. We encourage the submission of films in the form of feature-length (recommended 90-120 minutes), and short-length films (recommended under 30 minutes). International films are also welcome but must either be in English or have English subtitles.

2. Films must be available for screening during the festival, May 30 - June 2, 2024.

3. By submitting a film to HCFF, you grant the Hill Country Film Festival permission to screen your film, if said film is officially accepted into this year's lineup.

4. By submitting a film to HCFF, you agree to allow highlights or excerpts of your film (e.g. a trailer) to be placed on the HCFF website and used for other marketing and promotional purposes. You also agree to allow HCFF to promote the following year's festival with the above excerpts, highlights and/or trailers. HCFF will never solicit or screen your film outside the promotion of the HCFF.

5. You may submit as many entries as you like. Each entry requires its own entry fee.

6. The only acceptable way to submit your film is via FilmFreeway, as an online screener (Vimeo password-protected link is recommended).

7. In accordance with the HCFF policy, the entry fee is non-refundable. You will not be allowed to enter your work unless you agree to abide by the terms and conditions of the HCFF.

8. Filmmakers must have obtained all clearances for exhibition and must certify that the work is original and no disputes regarding ownership exist on the film.

9. All entries must be submitted through FilmFreeway by March 18, 2024.

11. Notification of selections will be by April 22, 2042. Only then will the film be considered for awards. Please understand that acceptance in the festival will in no way guarantee that you, your actors or crew will be offered paid transportation or lodging for the event. We do promise a good time, however.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Lee Eddy

    A fest that truly loves independent film. Impressive programming. This fest is an excellent host and provides plenty of opportunities to hangout with the supportive community and visiting filmmakers. Nestled in a beautiful central Texas city with perfect little spots to enjoy time outside of the fest.

    July 2024
  • ROBERT NEILSON

    The Hill Country Film Festival was well worth attending. Each screening I was at was packed, and the festival had amazing hospitality to filmmakers and guests. On your festival run the costs add up fast and you have to pick and choose, but HCFF is on my MUST ATTEND list.

    June 2024
  • Megan Dahl

    Don't sleep on the Hill Country Film Festival! We had a truly wonderful time, every event was on point, the films were beautiful, and the time to really meet and talk with other filmmakers and patrons was unparalleled. Loved our time here and couldn't ask for a more perfect World Premiere.

    June 2024
  • Laura Frenzer

    Absolutely one of our favorite festivals! Amazing films, great venue, outstanding filmmaker support, networking fun, and great communication! Cannot recommend this fest enough!

    June 2024
  • Fantastic. What a sweet, welcoming fest. Great films and people.

    June 2024