Volunteers are Hard at Work Preparing a Dynamic Lineup of Events
What began as a simple idea in Arizona’s Hometown has grown into something much bigger. Through sixteen years of creativity, dedication, and countless volunteer hours, the Prescott Film Festival has evolved into a vibrant, multi-dimensional celebration of independent cinema, beloved classics, emerging film trends, Hollywood history and immersive audience experiences.
Now, the Festival is getting ready for another can’t-miss event. Early Bird Platinum Passes and All-Film Passes are already available for the “Sweet 16” Prescott Film Festival, celebrating the magic of motion pictures from July 13–18 at the Jim and Linda Lee Performing Arts Center on the Yavapai College Prescott Campus, the Yavapai College Center for Learning and Innovation in building 19, and at The Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center at 117 East Gurley Street.
“The Prescott Film Festival is truly a labor of love for its founders, co-founders, directors, advisory board, coordinators and the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who have helped shape it since our monthly series in 2009,” Prescott Film Festival founder and Executive Director Helen Stephenson said.
“We’re thrilled to present our 16th annual showcase of outstanding independent films from across the United States, including Arizona, and around the world. This year’s Festival opens the door to bold, original storytelling. It’s an opportunity to meet imaginative filmmakers, discover unforgettable films and share in the creativity, insight and excitement that make independent cinema so special.”
This year’s Festival celebrates storytelling, independent spirit, and the shared community experience of seeing films together, while also introducing an exciting new 360-degree component. Big-screen films remain at the heart of the festival, with free workshops, themed parties, food and VIP experiences returning in full force.
The 2026 Prescott Film Festival will again offer its signature mix of independent films, international themes, and educational workshops. This year, the Festival begins on a Mon. Jul. 13 in the newly opened Center for Learning and Innovation in building 19 on the Prescott Campus. Audiences will be able to experience a film in the new Y-Max 360-degree theatre and attend free workshops from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Special events this year include a lively interactive sing-along to the original “Mary Poppins” and a fantastic Fri. Jul. 17 night event, “The Silent Symphony,” at The Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center. This year’s featured silent film is Buster Keaton’s “Go West,” the Arizona-filmed comedy classic.
Each year the Festival presents a “horse film,” and this year is no exception. The documentary/docudrama “Outriding the Devil” has been booked and it will be the next screening of the film in the state of Arizona. “Outriding the Devil” is filmed on a sweeping canvas that stretched from frontier Texas in 1850 to Cheyenne Frontier Days in 2024.
At the core of the film is the inspirational story of one of the most incredible comebacks in Western sports: in 2010, Texas Rodeo Hall of Famer, Angela Ganter, a world champion barrel racer, was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. In a decade-long fight for life she went from “death’s door to the winner’s circle” at the Calgary Stampede upon her remarkable return to rodeo. It's a story that transcends the sport, and one that she agreed to tell to provide hope for others facing cancer.
Ganter’s life and pioneering ranching heritage serve as both living history and a metaphor for Western culture and rodeo. Some of the only existing footage of early legends Jackson Sundown, George Fletcher, and Bertha Blancett, along with the only known film of Old West Texas giants, Charles Goodnight and Chief Quanah Parker, adds emphasis to the movie’s breadth.
Tickets and passes are available online at www.prescottfilmfestival.com and at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center website at www.ycpac.com. Tickets may also be obtained in person at the YCPAC box office Tuesday through Friday or by calling 928-776-2000.
Kick things off with a special May 17 screening of “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” at 3 p.m. at the Jim and Linda Lee Performing Arts Center on the Prescott campus. Directed by Frank Capra and starring James Stewart, a live panel discussion follows the film. Individual tickets are available, and this screening is part of the 2026 Prescott Film Festival Platinum Pass and All Film Pass.
A timeless celebration of courage and conviction, “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” showcases James Stewart at his most inspiring. Packed with heart and humor, this uplifting political tale continues to resonate with its message of integrity and hope. This stirring tribute to civic courage, James Stewart’s iconic performance shines with heartfelt sincerity and remarkable emotional range, anchoring a story that champions integrity, hope, and perseverance. An essential American classic that still speaks powerfully to today’s audiences. The film’s themes offer a timeless reflection on the power of the individual with conviction within America’s political landscape. Its bold, satirical energy and spirited storytelling make it both entertaining and thought-provoking for modern viewers.
"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" direct link
Prescott Film Festival event page with links to two passes
Direct Ticket purchase links for each pass are as follows:
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, six baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about Yavapai College, visit www.yc.edu.
