NEWTOWN, PA — The Bucks County FilmFest, a cornerstone of the region's independent film community for more than two decades, is relocating to the iconic Newtown Theatre for its 2026 festival, taking place on Saturday, Oct. 17.
The move is bringing together two cultural institutions rooted in storytelling - uniting one of the area's longest-running film festivals with the nation's oldest continuously operating movie theatre.
"This is more than a venue change - it's a natural evolution," said Brad Sanders, festival director of the Bucks County FilmFest. "The Newtown Theatre offers an unmatched cinematic experience, and this partnership allows us to elevate the festival while staying true to our mission of supporting emerging filmmakers and connecting them with the community."
Bucks County FilmFest 2025 winners. (Aaron Mitchell Photography)
Located in the heart of Newtown, the Newtown Theatre has been a gathering place for audiences since 1883 and has grown into a vibrant cultural hub featuring film, live performances, and special events.
"We're honored to welcome the Bucks County FilmFest into our home," said Andrew Smith, executive director of the Newtown Theatre. “The Newtown Theatre is proud to be a home for local filmmakers and writers to share their stories with the Bucks County community.”
A Festival Built for Discovery
Founded in 1999, the Bucks County FilmFest was created to champion local and emerging filmmakers, offering a platform to showcase their work in a professional theatrical setting.
Over the years, the festival has received nearly 900 film submissions, screened more than 300 films, and awarded more than $30,000 in prizes.
The 2026 festival will feature curated screenings of finalist films across multiple genres, a live screenplay table read performed by professional actors, industry panel discussions, an awards ceremony honoring top filmmakers and writers, and a post-event gathering in downtown Newtown.
Winning films will also have the opportunity to reach a broader audience through regional distribution platforms.
A New Chapter for Both Institutions
The move to the Newtown Theatre marks a significant step forward for the FilmFest, enhancing the audience experience while preserving the intimate, community-focused atmosphere that defines the event, said Sanders.
At the same time, the partnership expands the theatre's role as a destination for independent film and creative expression, building on recent investments and programming growth.
"Together, the Bucks County FilmFest and the Newtown Theatre are creating a space where emerging voices, historic legacy, and community connection come together on the big screen," said Sanders.
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