One of Edmonton’s longstanding film festivals, NorthwestFest, will be back this April for more excellent indie filmmaking.
This festival began in 1983 as the Edmonton Learners Centre’s “Third World Film Festival” and was changed to the Global Visions Film Festival in 1998, Canada’s longest-running documentary film festival. In May 2015, it finally found the name it’s recognized for now, NorthwestFest.
Now, it includes not only the best of local and international indie filmmaking, but local music, art, and media.
What to expect
This year, NorthwestFest will run from Apr. 8 to 14, spanning just under a week.
In the past, this festival has showcased some exclusive Edmonton premieres. This includes names like Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck, Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief, and Hired Gun. If you’re curious about some of the films being featured this year, NorthwestFest has released its first wave of film announcements.
Some of the featured films this year include a film from NorthwestFest alumni, filmmaker Sean Cisterna and a documentary about the incredible story of TW Hansen. Not to mention, there will be two film screenings of movies from the 1970s, standing the test of time.
The full schedule will be released soon. You can catch it on the festival’s website or any of its socials.
Although individual tickets have not been released for purchase yet, you can still get an all-access earlybird pass. This all-access pass allows you to attend all of the festival films, opening night events, and any special events or classes you might be interested in.
If you’re looking to support local indie filmmakers and delve deeper into the community, this festival is definitely for you. You’ll find the best people, the best media, and have the best time.
So, mark your calendars, folks, and get ready to have your eyes glued to the screen.
When: Wednesday, Apr. 8, 2026, to Tuesday, Apr. 14, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Metro Cinema — 8712 109th St. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Earlybird pricing starts at $84.40
Recent posts:
Here are some of the best markets coming up in Edmonton this spring
This glowing lantern parade in Edmonton is holding its 10th anniversary
