The Frozen River Film Festival offers programs that engage, educate and activate viewers to become involved in the world. These programs provide a unique perspective on environmental issues, sustainable communities, adventure travel and sports, and diverse cultures while showcasing the art of documentary film. Our films often explore issues, concerns, and life’s successes that are usually not covered in the local media.

We are always looking for children's films and family-friendly films as well.

We connect our viewers with people at the heart of current events, organizations at the forefront of social change, and distinct cultures in an increasingly global community.

Awards & Prizes

Best of Fest - Feature
Best of Fest - Midlength
Best of Fest - Short

Special Jury - Feature
Special Jury - Midlength
Special Jury - Short

MN Doc Award (across all categories; doc made by a Minnesota filmmaker)

People's Choice Award

People's Choice - Local (filmmaker with an address within 60 miles of Winona)

Rules & Terms

Frozen River Film Festival accepts no responsibility for loss or damage of entries during shipment to or from Frozen River Film Festival.

SHIPPING
The cost of shipping an entry to the festival must be paid by the entrant. Collect or C.O.D. shipment will not be accepted. All international entries must be sent "free domicile" to the Festival office with all transportation charges, duties, and taxes prepaid by the shipper. Any brokerage fees charged to the Frozen River Film Festival will be billed back to the shipper. Be sure to include all the proper customs documentation required by the shipping company.

Terms and Conditions:
Frozen River Film Festival is hereby granted the right to utilize an excerpt from any film and related materials submitted and accepted for exhibition at the Festival for promotional purposes. The individual or corporation submitting the film and related materials hereby warrants that it is authorized to commit the film and materials for screening and use in publications, and understands and accepts these requirements and regulations. The undersigned shall indemnify and hold harmless Frozen River Film Festival 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 of or damage to the screening videos entered.
22 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Lorraine Portman

    The Frozen River Film Festival is well organized and very welcoming. Films play in a fabulous venues. Communication is solid. Winona is a fabulous place for a festival with a lovely audience who appreciates the well curated films. I am honored and thrilled our film played this festival and we hope to return. Excellent workshops. Fabulous hospitality.

    March 2026
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  • Renate Zylla

    The German documentary film GIRLS DON'T CRY was treated with great respect by this festival. Unfortunately, the director, Sigrid Klausmann, was unable to attend the screening in person, but the festival provided us with comprehensive and insightful feedback on how the film was received by the audience. I appreciate the commitment and dedication of the Frozen River International Film Festival and wish the festival continued strength and support in staging this important film festival in the USA.

    February 2026
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  • Nicholas Kapanke

    To me, Frozen River is one of the best festivals in Minnesota. Some of the heaviest hitting documentary filmmakers in the state have screened here in recent years and I'm honored to have two films selected myself since 2024. Great location, great selections and programming. Worth your time as a filmmaker or guest.

    February 2026
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  • Erika Valenciana

    I love Frozen River FF so much that it's my third time attending. They provide convenient accommodations so that really helps stretch my festival budget. Great people! I love the town. Beautiful backdrop. Walkable fest. Well curated films. Can't wait for next year!

    April 2025
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  • Thomas C. Johnson

    Superbly ran that just keeps getting better and better, year after year. Thank you for supporting my films! - Thomas

    March 2025
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