THE FILMS MAY BE THE STARS OF THE SHOW…
BUT THERE’S A LOT MORE TO ENJOY AT PFF!
The best thing about the Phoenix Film Festival is that we not only have great films, but we have great things to do in between the films.
During the first weekend, the PFF Party Pavilion will be up and running with several exciting events that are free and open to the public! Networking events, parties, DJs, exhibitors -- the Party Pavilion is packed with fun and entertainment. It’s the perfect spot for a photo op or to mingle with filmmakers and fellow festival goers!
Although the Party Pavilion won’t be around for the second weekend - never fear! There’s still plenty to do - Filmmaker Panels, More Than Movies special events, and of course - the Copper Wing Awards!
You may come to the Phoenix Film Festival for the movies, but you'll stay for the parties!
Opening Night
Thursday, APRIL 9
6:00 pm
Exclusively for opening night ticket holders, this is the event that launches the festival into action! Top notch Phoenix restaurants provide a variety of tasty small plates that will satisfy any movie goer's appetite. Grab a drink at one of our Party Pavilion bars and enjoy musical entertainment while you bid on some exclusive silent auction items before heading over to the Opening Night screening!
SIlent auction
ONLINE: Thursday, April 9 - Sunday, April 19
LIVE: Thursday, april 9 - Saturday, april 11
Proceeds from the auction go to the Phoenix Film Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to support and develop the artistic appreciation, educational opportunities and growth of independent film within Arizona.
Auction items from prior events ranged from vacation getaways to unique film and television memorabilia and collectibles; along with fun items from local businesses!
MORE INFO COMING SOON
INDUSTRY NIGHT
Friday, april 10
6:00pm - 10:00PM
Want to know more about the local film scene in Arizona? Looking for those great connections to elevate the collaboration on your next film project? Actors, directors, producers, agents, and film fans gather here to rub elbows with local Arizona film industry professionals and exchange business cards during this FREE event.
Listen to some great tunes while you mingle. You can even purchase some tasty food!
Kids' day
Saturday, april 11
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Kids' Day gives children of all ages the chance to learn about the art of film for FREE. Younger festival-goers can participate in coloring activities or put on a costume to act out a scene. Older film fans might like to try their hand at acting in front of a green screen or learning about animation basics. These age-appropriate stations allow kids to explore the filmmaking process from beginning to end with activities that are fun for the whole family!
VHS SWAP
Saturday, april 11
2:30 Pm - 5:30 pm
Got a movie collection? Want to start one? We need you at the first-ever Phoenix Film Festival VHS Swap!
We’re partnering with our friends Cactus VHS to transform our Party Pavilion into physical media marketplace on Saturday, April 11 from 2:30-5:30pm. Whether you’ve got VHS, DVD, laserdisc, memorabilia, or you just love all things film, we’re looking for vendors and fans alike who share our passion for movie culture.
Find some film gems to take home with you!
Film Prom
Saturday, april 11
6:00PM - 10:00PM
MORE INFO COMING SOON
FILMMAKER panel discussions
Saturday, APRIL 11 - sunday, APRIL 12
Saturday, APRIL 18 - Sunday April 19
Our FREE weekend educational filmmaker panel discussions are open to the public and designed to enhance your Festival experience by bringing together filmmakers, film lovers and industry professionals. Although these discussions are free to attend, make sure to stop by our ticketing center to pick up a voucher for the session you wish to attend so you can reserve your seat at the Harkins theatre.
MORE INFO COMING SOON
More Than Movies - Special Events
We know what you’re thinking…“Hey, Phoenix Film Festival, what if I also want MORE THAN MOVIES during my festival experience….I mean obviously the films are fantastic, but what about a little extra?”
You got it! We are thrilled to announce the return of our More Than Movies program at the 2026 Phoenix Film Festival. Featuring trivia events, comedy shows, special screenings with deep dives into the artistry and storytelling that filmmaking can achieve, plus so much more!
MORE INFO COMING SOON
COPPER WING awards
Sunday, April 19
In Auditorium 1 at 9:30 PM
Sunday may be the last night of the festival, but we know how to give it a proper send off!
There’s nothing like seeing that table full of trophies or the anticipation that comes with finding out who will be taking one home with them!
Awards will be presented after our Closing Night film. You do not need to attend the closing night film to attend the awards ceremony.
