2026 Festival Schedule

Watch for details on specific times 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, and a meet and greet with our new Artistic Director, Joy Jorgensen

  • At the PAC, open to the public

  • Opportunity to purchase new festival passes (pending availability) and pickup previously purchased badges

Thursday, Sept 17th

• Filmmaker Welcome & Opening Remarks

• Opening Shorts Program

• Competition Feature Films

• Filmmaker Conversations

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 Conversations

• Competition Feature Films

Saturday, Sept 19th

• Shorts Program

• Competition Feature Films

• Filmmaker Conversations

• 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)