Have a story to tell? Whether it’s funny, inspiring, heartfelt, or completely unexpected, this is your chance to see it on the big screen as Dallas launches an exciting new celebration of local filmmaking.
September 5–6, 2026 | Latino Cultural Center | Dallas, Texas | Film submissions are open now through July 24
Texas has become one of the hottest places in the country for filmmaking, and now Dallas is giving local storytellers a brand-new stage.
The inaugural Dallas Latino Film Festival is coming to the Latino Cultural Center this September, and filmmakers from across Texas—and beyond—are invited to submit their short films for a chance to be part of this exciting first-year celebration.
Whether you’re filming with a professional crew, creating your first student project, or finally sharing that passion project you’ve been dreaming about, this festival wants to see your story.
The festival welcomes short films between 4 and 18 minutes in every genre, from comedy and drama to documentaries, animation, and experimental films. Stories exploring culture, identity, community, and the experiences that connect us are especially encouraged, but filmmakers of all backgrounds are invited to submit.
The excitement doesn’t stop with the screenings.
Throughout the weekend, you’ll have the chance to meet fellow filmmakers, swap ideas, hear behind-the-scenes stories during filmmaker Q&A sessions, attend industry panels and workshops, and make connections that could help launch your next project.
And yes—there are awards on the line.
Festival organizers will recognize outstanding films with honors including Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Story/Screenplay, and the always-popular Audience Choice Award, giving movie lovers the chance to cheer for their favorite film.
If you’re hoping to see your work on the festival screen, don’t wait too long. Film submissions are already open, with the late submission deadline set for July 24. Official selections will be announced on August 14, giving filmmakers plenty of time to celebrate before opening weekend arrives in September.
Even if you’ve never submitted to a film festival before, this is the perfect opportunity to jump in. Every great filmmaker starts with one story, one camera, and the courage to hit “record.”
To submit a film, visit the festival’s page on FilmFreeway and complete your entry before the deadline.
The Dallas Latino Film Festival is more than a weekend of movies—it’s the beginning of a new tradition that celebrates creativity, culture, and the incredible talent growing right here in Texas. So dust off that hard drive, finish that final edit, and let your story find its audience. The credits are about to roll on year one, and yours could be one of the films everyone is talking about.
