Sweet 16
July 13–18, 2026
Escape the summer heat for a week of world-class cinema
and high-level
hospitality in the cool pines of Prescott.
Experience the Magic of Our Sweet 16 Celebration — July 13-18, 2026
Mark your calendar as we roll out our “Sweet 16” edition: six days of standout independent cinema, international features, documentaries, shorts, and hands-on educational workshops! This is where creative storytelling, cinematic adventure, bold voices, and unforgettable moments bring our community together to experience films the way they’re meant to be seen: on the big screen
Early Bird Platinum Passes and All Film Passes are on sale now!
Special Event
Silent Symphony featuring Buster Keaton’s Go West. Experience a silent classic with a live score by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra at the historic Elks Theater. Filmed in Kingman, AZ, this comedy classic is sure to please! Friday July 17th, 7:00pm! Get Tickets Now!
Showcase Presentations
Official Trailer
Celebrate our Western Heritage: A special screening of the classic Rodeo film. Join us for a tribute to the spirit of Prescott’s oldest traditions on the big screen. Join us July 18, 4:00pm for the AZ Premier of the film Outriding the Devil! The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) describes this film as, “One of the great rodeo movies,” features arguably the most inspirational comeback in rodeo history: world champion barrel racer and Texas Rodeo Hall of Famer, Angela Ganter, overcoming Stage 4 breast cancer to return to the pinnacle of the sport. Yellowstone star Mo Brings Plenty plays a significant role in the docudrama sections of the film. “Outriding the Devil is no ordinary movie. It’s the most amazing true story,” he says. Brings Plenty’s latest TV drama Marshals just premiered on CBS. “It has an incredible cast. Some of today’s PRCA world champions and Yellowstone universe cast members.”
The Prescott Film Festival celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States with the screening of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington with a live panel discussion after the film. This is part of the Platinum and All Film Passes! This impactful film, starring the inimitable Jimmy Stewart, is sure to inspire! Stewart stars as a naive youth leader randomly appointed to fill a vacancy in the U.S. Senate. His idealistic plans collide with corruption at home and subterfuge from his hero in Washington, but he tries to forge ahead despite attacks on his character. Get tickets
This year’s crowd pleasing interactive Sing-A-Long for all ages is Mary Poppins! We will welcome back Nanette Hofer and Ginney Bilbray and free interactive bags to the first 150 people!
Festival films and workshops will be presented across three signature venues:
- Yavapai College – Prescott Campus
- Elks Theatre & Performing Arts Center
- The newly remodeled Center for Learning and Innovation (YC Prescott Campus)
Our six-day lineup also features parties, great food, the Platinum Pass VIP Experience for those who want the full festival treatment, and the opportunity for all audience members to vote for their favorite films – who will win the coveted Audience Choice Award?
Film lovers—this is your invitation to dive into the magic of independent cinema in Prescott, Arizona, a summer destination known for its historic downtown, iconic Whiskey Row, vibrant arts culture, and cool, pine-covered high-desert escape.
Spread the word, bring your friends, and come celebrate sixteen years of film with us. See you at the festival.
The Prescott Film Festival is a proud creative component of the Film & Media Arts Program at Yavapai College
