It’s your chance to be a part of FirstGlance, Philadelphia’s independent film festival since 1996!
The 29th Annual FirstGlance Film Festival, Philadelphia’s longest-running competitive indie film festival where audiences vote for “Best of the Fest,” returns to the Film Society Bourse, 400 Ranstead Street, Philadelphia, Pa., Friday, May 8, 2026, through Sunday, May 10, 2026.
The curated lineup of genre-spanning films features more than 40 new independent projects by professional, emerging, and student filmmakers from around the world comprising three features, six documentaries, twenty-four shorts, four animated shorts, and four student films. Thirty-four films are Philadelphia Premieres. Films will compete in more than 20 nominating categories and for Audience Choice Awards.
With everything from horror to thrillers and comedy to drama, plus examinations of newsworthy topics and social issues, there’s something for everyone. In addition to the original storytelling, attendees can also enjoy filmmaker interviews on the red carpet, networking and Q & A sessions with casts and crews, afterparties, and a live awards ceremony.
Get VIP Passes to the whole weekend so you don’t miss a thing! Or grab a ticket to individual screenings throughout the event.
FirstGlance Film Festival celebrates everything indie!
