The Ultimate Guide to New Jersey Film Festivals: 2026 & 2027

Updated: October 26, 2026

New Jersey is home to a vibrant film scene, with festivals that celebrate independent voices, international cinema, and local storytelling.

Whether you’re a filmmaker looking for a Jersey film festival submission, or a movie lover eager to grab Jersey film festival tickets, the Garden State offers unforgettable experiences year-round.

From red-carpet premieres to community screenings, these festivals bring together artists, audiences, and industry professionals in one creative space.

The article lists New Jersey film festivals scheduled for 2026 and 2027, with dates, venues, and ticket information.
The festivals cover independent films, international cinema, Jewish films, Indian and South Asian films, and horror.
Ticket prices vary by festival, and some listed prices are estimates based on prior-year costs.
The Garden State Film Festival, New Jersey Film Festival, and New Jersey Indian & International Film Festival provide opportunities for independent filmmakers.

New Jersey Film Festivals in 2026 and 2027

Discover the best New Jersey film festivals in 2026 & 2027, showcasing independent films, emerging filmmakers, documentaries, and cinematic events across the Garden State.

Annual Teaneck International Film Festival

November 5th to 12th, 2026
at multiple venues in Teaneck, NJ
The film festival has developed a niche in the film festival circuit present a collection of compelling and imaginative feature-length films, documentaries, and shorts from a variety of cultures that would lead audiences to question, debate, and become caring and involved citizens who recognize the need to institute positive change.
Cost: As of August 17, 2026, ticket prices not yet posted. Expect 2026 tickets to be $12–$13 per ticket.

The Barrymore Short Film Festival

November 13-14, 2026
The Barrymore Film Center, 1 Park Avenue, Fort Lee, NJ
The festival showcases exceptional independent films across a variety of genres while connecting filmmakers with audiences in an intimate, state-of-the-art venue. Throughout the festival, filmmakers, actors, producers, and industry professionals will come together for screenings, conversations, and special events that celebrate the art of filmmaking and foster creative connections.
Cost: Screenings: Adults $15 / Seniors 65+ $12 / Children under ten $12

Northeast Film Festival - Horror Fest

December 5, 2026
Teaneck Cinemas, 503 Cedar Lane, Teaneck, NJ
This one night horror showcase brings together filmmakers, fans, and industry professionals for a spine-tingling celebration of the genre. From terrifying indie premieres to cult classics, the festival highlights the best in horror storytelling, special effects, and suspenseful artistry.
Cost: 2026 prices not published. Based on 2025, expect Single-Day Pass $30 each

Grove Film Festival

December 16, 2026
Teaneck Cinemas, 503 Cedar Lne, Teaneck, NJ.
The Grove Film Festival is designed to be a relaxed atmosphere film festival, offering quality independent films. They encourage group collaboration and networking.
Following the screenings, is an after party including karaoke. The diverse array of films, selected by a committee, includes features, shorts and documentaries.
Cost: 2026 prices not published. Based on 2025, expect Single-Day Pass $30 each

New Jersey Film Festival - Spring

January 22-February 28, 2027
Voorhees Hall #105, 71 Hamilton Street, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
The festival showcase the best in independent film by featuring premiere screenings, special guest appearances by film directors, screenwriters, cast and crew and more.
Cost: General Admission$15 Per Program| ; Festival All Access Pass $100 | In-Person Only Student Ticket $10 Per Program.

Annual Garden State Film Festival

March 18-21, 2027
Multiple venues In Asbury Park and Cranford, NJ
The Garden State Film Festival's artistic philosophy centers on celebrating independent films and creating a platform for local and other independent filmmakers to showcase their work. Additionally, the event offers novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and those interested in a film career the chance to network with industry professionals in a supportive, educational environment.
Cost: 2026 prices. Saturday screening $58.21, Sunday screening $32.33

Malvin and Greta Roesch New Jersey Jewish Film Festival

March 25 - April 15, 2027
Maurice Levin Theater at JCC MetroWest, 760 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ
The Festival features first-run Israeli, American, and international films of Jewish interest, followed by thought-provoking speakers and discussions. It fosters the growth of Jewish culture, identity, and community in New Jersey by sharing the work of Jewish artists with a wide and growing audience.
Cost: $15 to $18

New Jersey Indian & International Film Festival (NJIIFF)

March 26, 27, 2027
Regal Cinemas Hadley Theatre, 1000 Corporate Court , South Plainfield, NJ
Its about bridging cultures and communities through the powerful medium of cinema. Their mission is to connect American, Indian, and South Asian audiences by showcasing compelling stories from around the world.
NJIIFF provides a dynamic platform for both local and international filmmakers to present their work to a diverse and engaged audience.
Deadline: Late deadline December 31, 2026
Cost: VIP Festival Pass $45.00, Opening Night Pass $35.00, Screening Pass Day2 $25.00, Student/Seniors/Special Needs Free

Monmouth Film Festival

May 20-23, 2027
Bell Works, Holmdel, NJ
The Monmouth Film Festival is a highly curated, top-caliber event that unites both established and emerging filmmakers in an elevated screening atmosphere designed to captivate critics, attract industry decision-makers, and engage passionate film lovers. Submissions accepted
Cost: Feature Films: $25 | Opening Night Film: $30 | Short Film Blocks: $15

Frequently Asked Questions About
New Jersey Film Festivals

What types of films do New Jersey film festivals feature?

The festivals in this guide feature independent films, documentaries, shorts, international cinema, Jewish films, and horror. Each event has its own focus, so check the festival description and schedule to find films that interest you.

When are the New Jersey film festivals listed in this guide?

The guide lists events scheduled from November 2026 through May 2027. Dates can change, so confirm the schedule with each festival before making plans.

How much do tickets to New Jersey film festivals cost?

Prices vary by event and ticket type. The article lists some published prices, while other prices are estimates based on prior-year costs; check the linked festival website for current ticket information.

Which New Jersey film festivals accept submissions from filmmakers?

The article says the Monmouth Film Festival accepts submissions and describes the New Jersey Indian & International Film Festival as a platform for local and international filmmakers. The New Jersey Film Festival and Garden State Film Festival also feature independent films. Filmmakers should check each event's official site for current submission rules and deadlines.