The Seattle International Film Festival is back for its 52nd year, bringing a wide-ranging slate of global cinema to the city from May 7–17, 2026. Known for spotlighting independent voices and international storytelling, this year’s festival will feature 203 films—including features, shorts, and documentaries—from more than 70 countries.
The festivities kick off with an Opening Night celebration on May 7, followed by a full schedule of screenings and special events across Seattle. One of the more intriguing offerings is “Secret Fest,” described as a “confidential cinematic excursion” where attendees must sign non-disclosure agreements before attending—perfect for moviegoers who enjoy a surprise. The festival will close on May 17 with a screening of The Invite.
To help audiences navigate such a large lineup, organizers have listed a few standout selections in their Program Highlights, including:
- Edie Arnold Is A Loser. May 8-9. “An infectiously charming coming-of-age flick about a self-proclaimed loser starting a punk band at her Catholic high school.” (Directors Megan Rico and Kade Atwood scheduled to attend.)
- Hot Water. May 8-9. “A Lebanese-born mother drives her troublesome son across the U.S. after he is expelled for fighting at school in this charming debut-feature dramedy from Ramzi Bashour.” (Director Ramzi Bashour and Cinematographer Alfonso Herrera-Salcedo scheduled to attend.)
- RADIOHEART. May 12 & 15. “A bio-doc about Cole’s remarkable life, with cameos from Seattle musical legends.” (Directors Peter Hilgendorf and Andrew Franks, and Subject Kevin Cole scheduled to attend.)
Festival passes and individual tickets are now available, including access to special events like the Opening Night film at the Paramount Theatre and its afterparty on May 7. SIFF members can take advantage of discounted pricing.
One notable change this year: the festival will be entirely in person, with no virtual screenings. Films will be shown at venues across Seattle, including SIFF Cinemas, the SIFF Film Center, and other iconic locations—making it a fully immersive, citywide celebration of film.
Find more info on the SIFF website.
