Aspen Film – Shortsfest 2026
Submissions for the 35th Annual Aspen Shortsfest are now closed — and what a milestone year it’s shaping up to be. Aspen Film received a record number of entries from filmmakers around the globe, reflecting the bold creativity and boundary-pushing storytelling that define the short form today.
Our programming team is now deep in the selection process as we build this landmark edition of the festival, taking place April 7–11, 2026, in the heart of the Rockies.
Stay tuned — the full lineup and more exciting announcements are on the way as we prepare to celebrate 35 years of unforgettable short cinema.
JUST ANNOUNCED: 35-Second Independent By Nature Video Challenge
To celebrate 35 years of Shortsfest, we’re inviting creators to think fast and film faster. The 35-Second Independent By Nature Video Challenge launches today — a chance to craft a bold, original story in just 35 seconds. Whether cinematic, experimental, funny, or unexpected, we want to see your take on independence through short-form storytelling.
