2026 Program and Passes
Weekend Passes
Film Festival VIP Pass
Access to all films and seminars throughout the festival weekend.*
Price: $150 + fees
Film Festival Pass
Access to film screenings only throughout the festival weekend.
Price: $75 + fees
*Looking for full access to the festival, including our black-and-white masquerade?
Join the Film Festival Society! Information below.
Join the Film Festival Society!
The Film Festival Society is the best way to experience the festival and support what makes it possible. Enjoy all of the perks: exclusive events, special access, a VIP weekend pass and a closer connection to the festival.
$750 per person / $1,500 per couple
Perks:
Exclusive access to the Black and White Masquerade (for Society members and sponsors only)
Access to the Horror Deconstructed seminar (for Society members, sponsors only, and VIP pass only)
VIP Festival Pass (includes all films + events)
Reserved seating at all films + events
Special lanyard and festival badge
Free popcorn throughout the Festival in limited edition popcorn tub
Contact Charlotte for more information at cmuir@highlandsperformingarts.com.
2026 Festival Program
Watch for details on specific times, films, and special guests as they develop.
Wednesday, Sept 16th
Festival Kick-Off bonfire (weather permitting) and live music from Silly Ridge, a popular Highlands-based acoustic band of classic bluegrass music.
At the PAC, open to the public
Opportunity to purchase new festival passes (pending availability) and pickup previously purchased badges
Meet with Artistic Director Joy Jorgensen
Thursday, Sept 17th
Filmmaker Welcome & Opening Remarks
Opening Shorts Program
Competition Feature Films
Friday, Sept 18th
Morning hike on a historical trail (weather permitting)
Special seminar: Horror Deconstructed (10am)
Not a fan of horror movies? We get it. Join us for this workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at how horror films are made. First, local sculptor and Academy Award winner Wesley Wofford will share his experiences creating special effects for movies such as Hannibal, for which he received his Academy Award. Then, hear about Clara Stack, a young American actress who stars in the HBO prequel series "It: Welcome to Derry”, an American supernatural horror television series based on Stephen King's 1986 novel. You will leave the workshop looking at horror films differently!
This special event is included in the VIP Festival Pass, Film Society, and Sponsorship packages.
Shorts Program
Filmmaker Conversation
Competition Feature Films
Saturday, Sept 19th
Shorts Program
Competition Feature Films
Filmmaker Conversation
Black and White Masquerade (6:00pm)
Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the silent movie Phantom of the Opera with us. The evening includes a gourmet reception followed by a viewing of this classic silent film, featuring live musical accompaniment by members of the Western Carolina University orchestra. Afterward, enjoy sweets and champagne. Attendees are invited to wear black and white attire and masks, if they choose.
Exclusive to Film Society Members and Sponsors
Sunday, Sept 20th
Winning Shorts Showcase
Awards Ceremony & Closing Remarks
Highlands Porchfest (sponsored by CLE)
“The Highlands–Cashiers Film Festival creates an unforgettable weekend where film, community, and nature converge to support the Performing Arts Center, with shared, in-person experiences no screen at home can replicate.”
— Jeanne Piazza, Executive Director, Highlands Performing Arts Center
