Schedule & Programming
The 64th Ann Arbor Film Festival takes place at the historic Michigan Theater from March 24-29, 2026.
This year's highlights:
Showcasing the best in experimental film, the AAFF presents milestones and new features in 2026.
- 25th Anniversary of Out Night: Celebrate 25 years of queer cinema reflecting lived experience and cultural history.
- Films Exploring Generative AI: New this year are six short films that engage and explore AI as an open question.
- Ukrainian Filmmakers Spotlight: A weekend of programs devoted to Ukrainian filmmakers highlighting voices of resilience and creativity under extraordinary circumstances.
What to Expect: Programming
Programs during the AAFF include films and features competing for awards and off-the-screen experiences.
- Films in Competition: Series of short films with a runtime under 60 minutes.
- Features in Competition: Single feature-length films or paired features and shorts.
- Special Programs: Curated thematic selections not in competition.
- Off The Screen (OTS): New media, live performances, installations, and discussions throughout the festival.
- Awards Program Online: March 30 - April 13; catch winning features for an extended time online.
View programming & the full schedule.
Festival Passes & Tickets
Whether you want the all-access pass, or tickets for one feature film, find the package that’s right for you.
Passes - on sale now!
- Festival Pass ($90-$185): Access to all in-person events, opening night party, screenings, after-parties.
- Festival Combo Pass ($110-$200): Full festival pass access plus online access to the Awards Programs.
- Weekend Pass ($70-$100): Weekend-only, in-person access to programming.
- Online Access ($15 each): Two online programs available March 30-April 13.
Tickets - on sale March 1
- Individual Showings ($9-$15): General admission to any film.
- Special Events: Opening Night Party & Screenings.
- Online Awards Programs: Enjoy the festival online.
View a full list of tickets and pass options here.
Film Fest FAQ
Are films appropriate for all ages?
- Films are not rated and some material may be more appropriate for adult audiences unless specified.
Where do I park for the Ann Arbor Film Festival?
- Find parking in the nearby parking structure (Maynard St.) or metered street parking.
How else can I support this film festival?
- Support the festival by becoming a member, donating, or by exploring volunteer and job opportunities. Click here to get involved.
Where can I learn more about the historic film festival?
- Uncover the history of AAFF, plus notable guests and contributions through the years. Click here for AAFF history.
Some films have imagery of a stroboscopic nature and may affect photosensitive viewers.
About Ann Arbor Film Festival
Founded in 1963 by George Manupelli, the Ann Arbor Film Festival is the oldest avant-garde and experimental film festival in North America, providing a vital platform for alternative filmmakers and artists. Renowned for showcasing pioneering work—including early films by Kenneth Anger, Brian DePalma, Devo, Barbara Hammer, George Lucas, Yoko Ono, Gus Van Sant, Agnès Varda, and Andy Warhol—the AAFF remains a premier forum for bold, visionary cinema. As one of the few Academy Award–qualifying festivals in the U.S., it directly supports independent filmmakers by awarding films that may not find commercial distribution. For the 63rd AAFF, 2,642 films from 93 countries were submitted, with 112 films selected for competition, including 8 features, 14 shorts programs, 3 juror programs, 4 performances, and 9 special programs. This year, the festival will distribute $39,000 in cash and in-kind awards.
Explore more of the Film Fest's schedule details, after-parties, and shop for merch: AAFilmFest.org.
