The Latino Cultural Center has announced the launch of the inaugural Dallas Latino Film Festival, scheduled for Sept. 5-6, 2026, with organizers inviting filmmakers from across Texas and beyond to submit short films for consideration.
The new festival is designed to provide a platform for filmmakers, storytellers and creative professionals to share their work while highlighting stories centered on culture, identity, community and the human experience. Organizers say the event also aims to strengthen connections within Texas’ growing film industry.
Submissions are now open to filmmakers of all experience levels, including students, emerging artists, independent creators and established professionals. Festival organizers are seeking short films between four and 18 minutes in length.
The festival will accept entries in all genres, including narrative, documentary, animation and experimental films. Non-English language submissions must include English subtitles.
Selected films will be screened during the two-day festival at the Latino Cultural Center, where attendees will also have access to filmmaker question-and-answer sessions, networking events, industry panels, educational workshops and curated film screenings.
Festival organizers also plan to recognize outstanding work through several award categories, including Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Story/Screenplay and the Audience Choice Award.
The regular submission period is now open. The late submission deadline is July 24, with official selections scheduled to be announced Aug. 14.
The inaugural Dallas Latino Film Festival is set for Sept. 5-6 at the Latino Cultural Center in Dallas.
Submit films at https://filmfreeway.com/DallasLatinoFilmFestival.
