Ouray International Film Festival

Overview

"OIFF is a filmmaker's dream!" - Linh Tran; Slamdance Grand Jury Prize Winner We take care of filmmakers. From financial support for travel and lodging to catered meals, we put the filmmaker experience first. It’s one reason MovieMaker Magazine named us one of the “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee in 2026.” Nestled in the mountains of southwest Colorado, the Ouray International Film Festival is an intimate four-day celebration featuring films, food, panel discussions, workshops, and parties. Organized events, along with informal meetups at mountain homes, local parks, and the occasional rooftop, create space for meaningful connection among filmmakers that often continue long after the weekend. As a one-screen festival with no competing programs, every film receives the audience’s full attention at the historic Wright Opera House, built in 1888 and equipped with a 4K laser projector and modern sound system. We also intentionally build time into the schedule for filmmakers to experience Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” through scenic hikes, natural hot springs, vapor caves, Jeep rides, local breweries, shops, and stunning mountain views. The 8th annual festival will take place in June 2027, with exact dates to be announced. "The Ouray Film Festival Creates Encouraging Space for Art" - Brian Tallerico, Managing Editor of RogerEbert.com https://www.rogerebert.com/festivals/the-ouray-film-festival-creates-encouraging-space-for-art Ouray named one of the "50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee in 2026" by MovieMaker Magazine https://www.moviemaker.com/50-film-festivals-worth-the-entry-fee-2026/

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

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Festival Details

FilmFreeway communityGold festival

• Filmmaker

  Now this is how you run a festival. Efficient communication, outstanding hospitality, a place where you belong. That's where they're creating here at OIFF. I can throw out so many more good adjectives to describe this festival, but please know that they will champion you, care for you, and will push and praise your art the way it deserves to be. The hype is real when it comes to this festival in the mountains of Colorado. I love how all the short blocks are curated so well, not giving them any titles or anything but specifically choosing each block to complement each other. The whole community comes together to watch movies together and that experience is invaluable. You'll leave OIFF and be on a high for a year until you come back again.

• Filmmaker

  Charming, lovely, kind, and welcoming is how I would describe my time at this Ouray International Film festival - They all truly care about filmmakers and love telling good stories, I highly recommend this festival! The beautiful location is unbelievable and relaxing in-between screenings. <3 you all :)

• Filmmaker

  "A rising tide lifts all boats." we know there is wisdom in this saying, yet few film festivals are designed with this ethos in mind. Ouray is the rising tide that lifts everyone participating in the festival from the lauded feature filmmakers to someone who has made their first short film. Jake and Jared have cultivated a communal environment where people feel supported, and when filmmakers feel supported, they are more capable and willing to support each other. Submit your next film to Ouray!!!

• Filmmaker

  Ouray is simply the best. Location incredible, films outstanding, organizers, volunteers, community, all memorable — this is a festival I’ll gladly return to over and over again. A truly special experience.

• Filmmaker

  The Ouray International Film Festival was a wonderful experience! The festival team was incredibly supportive, and the intimate setting created a real sense of community among filmmakers. It was a great opportunity to connect and spend time with other filmmakers, and the audience turnout and engagement were fantastic. I’m so grateful to have been part of such a welcoming and thoughtful festival!

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