Crested Butte Film Festival

"25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World" - MovieMaker Magazine

Nestled among towering mountains and golden aspen trees, our intimate and free-spirited festival inspires audiences and filmmakers through quality film screenings, stimulating discussions, authentic connections and a ton of fun. In alignment with our mission, we curate bold, visceral, high-quality films that activate emotions and invite personal, social and environmental transformation.

In its 15th year, the festival showcased 75 feature-length and short films spanning narrative, documentary, outdoor adventure, student and children’s films genres. Additional programs sprinkled throughout the festival include panel discussions, meet-and-greets and other engaging networking events.

At Crested Butte Film Festival, you’ll be inspired by the transformative power of film, while making lasting connections in an atmosphere of beauty and creativity, fueled by great films, discussions, shared experiences, bike rides, hikes and our magical mountain scenery.

Thank you, CBFF! What an awesome film festival. Everyone was so kind and accommodating, and there were so many great films, Q&As and networking opportunities. Plus, it was set in the beautiful mountains with aspens at peak yellow and hiking trails nearby. What wonderful hosts!

-- Jessica Wilde, Filmmaker

Crested Butte FF was an amazing experience. It was really special to connect with the local CB community. The programmers are invested in all the filmmakers who attend and cultivating a spirit of connection and community during the fest. The hospitality was out of this world, never had this inviting of an experience as a shorts filmmaker. The screenings had some of the best films of the year, with Q+As which reactivated me as a filmmaker. I recommend to any filmmaker who needs a getaway with great mountain views alongside great films and company.

-- Saleem Gondal, Filmmaker

"Hands down one of my favorite film festivals in the world. The thoughtful selection of films paired with an intimate festival size makes for an amazing opportunity to get inspired and connect with other filmmakers in one of the most beautiful towns around."

-- Frank Pickell, Filmmaker

"What. A. Festival. I’ve never had, and could not imagine a better film fest experience. From the organizers to the volunteers to the people that come to see the films, there simply isn’t a more authentic, excited and loving group of people anywhere else. Everything about this fest is conducive to having a great time and meeting great filmmakers. Not to mention, Crested Butte is one of the most stunning places to see in the country. You can’t really explain it, you just have to go”

--Hugo Cordova, Filmmaker

A FILMMAKER'S FESTIVAL

Known as a “filmmakers festival,” you’ll experience an atmosphere of inspiration through well-attended screenings, high-quality programming, stimulating panel discussions and opportunities for authentic engagement. This festival thrives on fostering lasting connections and partnerships among attendees, filmmakers and industry professionals.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

Genius. Artistry. Creation. A new way of telling a story. Connection through film, transformative experiences. Simply put, the best in narrative, documentary, short, feature and outdoor adventure. We believe in the transformative power of film.

WHAT MAKES CRESTED BUTTE UNIQUE

Town: Crested Butte is a historic mining town turned tourist destination with world-class skiing, biking, and hiking.
Size: At just six by ten blocks with a year-round population of only 1,500 people, Crested Butte is a small mountain town that's packed with local character and a lively arts scene.
Altitude: A true mountain retreat at 8,885 feet above sea level.
Beauty: We're literally surrounded by mountains. Think epic panoramic vistas with snow capped peaks and dazzling golden aspen trees.
Fun: Bike parades, hikes through golden aspen groves, delicious food, craft rum, and plenty of magically spontaneous moments.

MISSION

Through the transformative power of film, Crested Butte Film Festival fosters connection and inspires creativity, cultural awareness and social action.

FESTIVAL DATES

September 25 - 27, 2026

THANK YOU

Film has the power to bring people together which is now more important than ever. Thank you for submitting your film to Crested Butte Film Festival. We’re excited to experience it!