filmfreeway.com/HudsonValleyFilmFest We'll open up our 2027 Call for Submissions come January or February 2027. Sign up for our mailing list to stay updated. 

The Hudson Valley Film Fest welcomes submissions from first-time directors, student filmmakers, as well as seasoned pros. We believe in inclusivity and diversity, and we're not too fancy a Fest to consider every film.

Everyone, regardless of experience level, has a shot at being part of the Hudson Valley Film Fest.

Absolutely. 

Heck yes! Fill out this form. Currently taking applications for Greeters, Ticketing, Merch Table, Set up, and Break Down. 

The 3-night festival takes place at the Warwick Drive-In Theater in Warwick, NY.

Tickets are available for purchase both online from FilmFreeway and in person at the Warwick Drive-In during the event.

YES. 

While the Warwick Drive-In does NOT sell alcohol, BYOB-ing is aok. 

There will be el Azteca Mexican food truck on Tuesday & Wednesday, local Jerk Chicken on Thursday, as well as a rad vegan vendor and local ice cream n mini donuts dessert truck every day of the Fest. Please do visit the snack bar @ the Drive-in for popcorn, fries, and sweet treats too! 🍿

There will be numerous local vendors offering an eclectic mix of items from 4-8pm @ the Warwick Drive-in. From unique collectibles to vintage treasures, one-of-a-kind crafts to artisanal products, you’ll have the opportunity to shop before the Film Fest begins. This is an excellent way to support local artists, makers, and entrepreneurs.

All kinds of films: Animation, drama, horror, coming of age, documentary, experimental, foreign, etc. We celebrate indie film of all genres, from quirky to classic. We curate every evening to be its own cinematic ride.

Not always. The films in the program may not always be suitable for children. Please contact us closer to the festival dates, once they are announced and we'll be happy to provide recommendations for the most kid-friendly evening.

In the comfort of your own car (think: pillows, blankets, inflatable mattresses - get creative)! Some folks also bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to watch outdoors. 

Generally speaking: For cars with push button starts - leave your foot OFF the brake pedal and press the engine start/stop button ONCE. Press it a second time to light up the instrument panel and control windows, etc. You may need to google [your car] accessory mode for peskier instructions. 

Generally speaking: It varies! Usually, two hours max. We suggest starting the engine during INTERMISSION to run the car for a few minutes. That will extend the time available in accessory mode and won't drive your fellow attendees nutz with your headlights shining in their rear-view mirrors. 

Yep! Leashed doggos can enjoy the Fest too. 

Yes! It's super fun to get snuggly in your car and watch films in the rain too. BYOBlanket.

Check out the local Airbnbs around Warwick, NY.

Pet-friendly campsites are also available nearby. We really like Wawayanda State Park (which is only a few miles from the Warwick Drive-in) and there's Black Bear RV Park too.

The Hudson Valley Film Fest is unique because:

• Folks can watch indie flicks under the stars at a Drive-In Theater. 

• We curate a diverse selection of indie films for an interesting viewing experience for everyone.

• We will consider ANY submitted film under 25 min. We don't believe there should be any restrictions on damn good indie flicks. ​

• The HVFF  offers pre-parties, live music, food trucks, awards ceremony, flea market, art installations, photo ops, bowling after party and ...plenty o' popcorn. 🍿

 We love collabs, yes. 

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Warwick, NY. is a gem. There's LOTS to do in the area. 

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RESTAURANTS WE LOVE:

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Tuscan Cafe : Beloved cafe off the Main Street of Warwick with a great menu of soups, salads, sandwiches and wraps. The coffee is good n strong. They also graciously help fuel our Filmmaker Brunch each year, and we're incredibly grateful for their support.Send our love to owner Cristie! 

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The Grange : Farm-to-table restaurant, housed in a 112-year-old former post office, emphasizes community and real food, with the owner/chef Jim actively involved in local organic farming. Send our love to chef Jim! 

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The Landmark Inn : Fine dining in a 237 year old Casual country inn. Send our love to chef Michael!

Baird's Tavern : A colonial style pub with a rich history. If Rikki is bartending - send our love to her! 

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Eddie's Roadhouse
Great burgers, comfort food, and one of the area's best selections of craft beer. A perfect stop after a night at the movies.

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Country Dream
A warm, family-run restaurant in the hamlet of Edenville serving hearty American comfort food alongside authentic homemade Mexican specialties.

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Agave y Maiz
Fresh Mexican cuisine, colorful cocktails, and plenty of flavor. Super close to the Drive-in and ideal for gathering with friends before the Fest. 

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Noble Pies

A Warwick favorite, Noble Pies serves handcrafted sweet and savory pies, homemade ice cream, and plenty of small-town charm. We're also incredibly grateful for their generosity over the years, as they've kindly donated freshly baked pies for our filmmakers at previous Hudson Valley Film Festivals.

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Bellvale Farms Creamery : Killer ice-cream. Even better views. Sweet combo. 

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HIKES WE LOVE: 

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Wawayanda State Park :  Large park with an area of 34k+ acres, swimmable lake, seasonable boat rentals, and 60 miles of scenic hiking trails. You can't go wrong here. It's also just down the road from the Warwick Drive-in. Campsites are recommended here! 

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Stairway to Heaven
One of the region's most iconic hikes, featuring sweeping views, wildflowers, and a memorable climb that's well worth the effort! 

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Appalachian Trail Boardwalk
A peaceful, accessible stroll across wetlands on one of the longest hiking trails in the world. Keep an eye out for birds, turtles, and deer.

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Cascade Lake
A local fav for an easy walk, a picnic, or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

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Liberty Loop Trail
A scenic woodland hike offering rolling terrain and rewarding views - perfect for birders. 

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Fitzgerald Falls
A short hike leads to a picturesque waterfall that's especially beautiful after a good rain. If you're lucky, there's enough water to take a cool dip too. 

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Sterling Lake Loop
A peaceful lakeside trail with forest views and gentle terrain. 

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Fuller Mountain Preserve: Magnificent 255-acre wooded ravine on Fuller Mountain in Warwick that stretches from north of Black Rock Road to the New Jersey border.

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We're a handful of homegrown Hudson Valley creatives that feel strongly about supporting the local arts scene and creative community. 

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It ain't easy putting together a Film Fest. We do this because we love it.

NO. We’re not sure how this rumor got started, but we can assure folks that we are a completely independent, locally-run entity. We also maintain a strict “no jerks” policy. 

SHOW UP and spread the word about it! 

We also accept donations with great appreciation at our Venmo account 

Please know these donations go directly into our filmmaker awards, paying talent, and overall Fest production. We're doing our best to keep this Fest afloat. :)

Your support helps fund filmmaker awards, artists, musicians, graphic designers, local vendors, and the MANY creative collaborators behind the Hudson Valley Film Fest. As an independent, community-run festival, every dollar is reinvested into making the experience better for indie filmmakers, audiences, and the arts community.