ABOUT

WELCOME TO MIDNIGHT FEST 2026!

Midnight Fest is a festival that presents horror films how they’re meant to be seen: In a packed theater, in October, in New England – home to some of the most enduring horror stories ever told and the history that inspired them.

In 2025, Midnight Fest presented over 30 films across five days. The lineup included new independent features and shorts alongside revival screenings of The Ring, The Changeling, and Donnie Darko. Bringing contemporary work into conversation with established classics is central to what we do. At Midnight Fest audiences revisit films that shaped the genre and carry that same excitement to discovering new filmmakers.

We’ve hosted filmmakers from across the horror landscape. Including –

• David F. Sandberg (Lights Out)
• Disasterpeace (It Follows)
• John Dilworth (Courage the Cowardly Dog)
• and Stephen Cognetti (Hell House LLC)

Our guests represent different disciplines and generations of genre storytelling. Q&As and conversations are an important part of the festival.

Midnight Fest is built by horror fans. We program films we are excited about and proud to share. We look for strong craft, clear perspective, and above all – we value films that create a real reaction in a room.

Each year we bring together filmmakers and audiences for a celebration of new discoveries and bona fide classics. Our programming connects different eras, styles, and voices within the horror genre.

We accept submissions in the following categories:

• Feature Film
• Short Film
• Short Screenplay

We look forward to sharing your films with the thriving horror community in New England.