US Ongoing

Richmond Film Festival

Name: Richmond Film Festival
Start: 2026-09-22
End: 2026-09-27
Location: Richmond

The Richmond Film Festival is an annual multi-day cinematic event held in Virginia, showcasing a diverse lineup of international film premieres. Now in its 15th year, the 2026 edition features over 180 screenings alongside live music performances, industry panels, and special presentations. The festival is recognized for its extensive programming of Israeli and joint Israeli-Palestinian submissions, highlighting works that explore complex cultural and social themes.

Date: Sep 22-27, 2026
Location: Richmond
Status: Ongoing

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Event summary

Highlights

Screening of over 180 film premieres across multiple theaters
Significant showcase of Israeli and joint Israeli-Palestinian cinema
Live music performances and industry panels throughout the event
Presentation of a Legacy Award to Rabbi Marvin Hier

The Richmond Film Festival returns for its 15th anniversary from September 22 to 27, 2026, across various venues in Richmond. The event serves as a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers, screening more than 180 premieres over six days. Beyond cinema, the festival integrates a broader arts experience by incorporating live music and professional panels into its schedule. A significant focus for this edition is the inclusion of numerous Israeli films and collaborative Israeli-Palestinian projects.

Notable screenings include documentaries such as "UNraveling UNRWA," "TORN: The Israel-Palestine Poster War on NYC Streets," and "The Hollywood Rabbi." Narrative features and shorts like "Out At Six," "Half a Date," and "Frequency" are also featured. The festival continues to program international content despite external social pressures and boycott calls, reporting a recent increase in ticket sales and submissions from the region.

In addition to film screenings, the festival honors significant contributions to cinema and human rights. For the 2026 event, organizers have planned a legacy award for Rabbi Marvin Hier, the founder of the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Many sessions include interactive elements, such as a panel discussion moderated by director Jon Kean following the premiere of his biographical documentary.

Practical details

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.