Fort Smith International Film Festival: A Spectacular Fusion of Cinema, Art, and Culture

The Local Vibe
Aug 7
2 min read

Updated: Aug 11

160 Films • Music • Pottery • VIP Events • After Dark Screenings

The fifth annual Fort Smith International Film Festival kicks off this weekend, August 7–9, unleashing an unparalleled creative experience on downtown Fort Smith. With a bold combination of global cinema, vibrant music, pottery workshops, and live art, the festival promises to connect culture, craft, and community in exciting new ways.

Click below to watch Interview

Featuring 160 films from over 30 countries and 17 Indigenous nations and tribes, the festival takes storytelling to the next level with immersive events that let audiences engage beyond the screen. “This year, we’ve brought together filmmakers, musicians, artists, and storytellers to create an environment where people can engage with creativity in every form,” said Executive Director Brandon Chase Goldsmith.

Cinematic Highlights

On Friday, August 8, the festival will spotlight Indigenous languages with The Arrangement (Navajo) and Siren of the Wood (Cherokee) at the Fort Smith Convention Center. Alongside global premieres and Arkansas-made gems, the After Dark screenings push cinematic boundaries with bold, adults-only tales at the Bakery District.

Pottery in Motion: Film Meets Clay

Don’t just watch—create! Festivalgoers can get hands-on with a pottery workshop on Friday, August 8, at the Bakery District Collection Room. Attendees can also enjoy curated clay-centric films such as Black Gold of Oaxaca and Ozark Wabi, celebrating artisans from Mexico to the Ozarks.

Music Takes Center Stage

The melody and rhythm of the Fort Smith Riverfront Blues Society will fill the Bakery District on Saturday, August 9, while music documentaries highlight iconic talents like Randy Crouch and Sully Erna. For the night owls, late-night music videos light up the stage at Hero’s Lounge.

More to Experience

VIP guests will find luxury in exclusive lounges and rooftop parties, while professional headshots offer visitors a chance to capture the glamor for just $25. The festival’s affordability shines with passes, starting at just $15, encouraging everyone to join in this artistic celebration.

Get Your Passes Today

Tickets are selling fast! Festival Passes are just $15 (25% off pre-sale discount), while VIP Passes are $40 (20% pre-sale discount). Discover the full schedule and secure your tickets at www.FortSmithFilm.com.

About the Festival

Produced by the River Valley Film Society, the Fort Smith International Film Festival champions diversity, creativity, and regional culture through film and the arts. Since its inception in 2021, it has become a sought-after platform for independent filmmakers and artists both locally and globally.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the most immersive year yet at the Fort Smith International Film Festival!