Ames Documentary Film Festival
A new celebration of nonfiction storytelling is coming to Ames. The Ames Regional Economic Alliance, Octagon Center for the Arts, and Ames Main Street is excited to announce the launch of the Ames Documentary Film Festival, debuting September 27, 2026, in conjunction with the long-standing Octagon Arts Festival.
The Ames Documentary Film Festival showcases powerful nonfiction storytelling through short films; each under 40 minutes. Ames is home to Iowa State University and this festival is a nod to the university’s academic strengths and connects filmmakers, scholars, and the public to celebrate the art of documentary and the impact of higher education.
Designed for the broader Ames community and those connected to Iowa State University, the festival welcomes local residents, students, and faculty with an interest in film, storytelling, and the social, cultural, and academic topics explored through documentary. Campus organizations such as the Filmmakers Club and Screenwriting Club, along with students in the Digital Media major, will find meaningful opportunities to engage with the festival and connect their creative and academic interests to a larger community conversation.
Key festival milestones include:
- January 2026: Public announcement of the festival
- March-June 2026: Call for films and filmmaker outreach
- August 2026: Final selections announced
- September 2026: Festival schedule released
- September 27, 2026: Festival debut
All film submissions will be accepted exclusively through FilmFreeway, the leading platform for filmmakers to share their work with festivals worldwide.
For more information, including upcoming deadlines, visit the Ames Documentary Film Festival website and social media channels.
- Website – www.amesdocfilmfest.com
- Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AmesDocFilmFest
- Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/amesdocfilmfest/
Event sponsor
