The Dufferin Film Festival is rolling out the red carpet once again this August, returning for its second year to spotlight the best in Canadian independent short films and emerging talent.
Following a sold-out inaugural year, this all-Canadian festival promises a dynamic lineup of film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, industry panels, hands-on workshops, and vibrant networking events.
The festival received submissions from across the country – all the way from Vancouver to the east coast. Submission numbers went through the moon it its second year, seeing approximately triple the amount of entrants of its first year.
“It’s one of the few festivals in Canada focused exclusively on Canadian short films and built to connect emerging filmmakers with an engaged, local audience,” said Kelly McDowell, festival director.
As the first festival of its first kind in the region, the Dufferin Film Festival brings something entirely new to the community.
McDowell said Orangeville was a natural choice for the event because of the town’s thriving tourism, rich arts and culture scene and picturesque historic downtown core.
Unique among Canadian film festivals, the Dufferin event is designed to foster meaningful connections between emerging filmmakers and an engaged local audience.
“The festival is known for its intimate atmosphere, bold programming, and real community impact,” said McDowell.
Last year’s featured speakers included Emma nominated special effects coordinator Sophie Vertigan, VFX artist and director Marcus Feher and producer, actor and mental health advocate Lauren Saarimaki.
This year’s festival, running from August 15 to 17, is expanding to include an extra day of programming, more films and a new VIP event for both filmmakers and film lovers.
On the Friday, there is a screening followed by the VIP social at Revival 1863 with live music, entertainment and prizes. Following on Saturday a speak series begins at 10 a.m. followed by screenings in the afternoon. In the evening there is a ‘Social under the Stars’ at Greystones Restaurant on the patio.
On Sunday final screenings will be held and the handing out of awards will happen upstairs at Greystones Restaurant.
Screenings will take place at the historic Orangeville Opera House.
Festival highlights include a broader selection of short films, intimate networking opportunities, and in-depth panels exploring the future of Canadian cinema—featuring some exciting special guests. The full lineup and guest list will be revealed mid June.
Grab tickets and festival passes at: dufferinfilmfest.com