An 11-day film festival is coming back to Calgary with screenings, panels, and more

Movie nights in Calgary just got a serious upgrade. The Calgary Underground Film Festival (CUFF) will return to the city this April. This 11-day event showcases films by local and international indie filmmakers, including genres such as horror, sci-fi, comedy, fantasy, and unconventional titles you won’t find anywhere else.

What to expect at the festival

The Calgary Underground Film Festival is considered Western Canada’s biggest genre festival, and this year will be its largest event, spanning over eleven days. Attendees can expect an exciting mix of feature films that offer stories rarely seen in theatres across North America.

In addition to feature films, CUFF showcases shorts, documentaries, and animated work from both local and international talent, providing a diverse lineup for every type of movie fan.

Many screenings will include panel discussions and interactive Q&A’s, allowing the audience to meet directors, actors and creators and gain insight into the filmmaking process.

At the screenings, visitors can also look forward to awards being presented for standout films, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Categories include Best Narrative Feature, Best Canadian Short Film, Best Documentary Feature, as well as audience-selected favourites across multiple categories.

One of this year’s highlights is CAROLINE CAROLINE, the most recent film from Adam Carter Reihmeier, known for his 2020 opening night film Dinner in America. 

Whether you’re here to discover local talent, support filmmakers, or enjoy bold, original storytelling in the city, the Calgary Underground Film Festival offers a cinematic experience unlike any other.

Plan your visit

The 23rd Calgary Underground Film Festival runs from April 16 to April 26, 2026, at the Globe Cinema.

Tickets can be purchased online or in person at the festival box offices. Schools, organizations, and large groups looking to attend together can contact the festival in advance to arrange tickets. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early is recommended for popular screenings.

Many screenings will feature live Q&A sessions and often become the highlight of the event for many visitors, so timing your visit around them is a good idea.

From horror and sci-fi to comedy and fantasy, CUFF has something for every type of movie lover. So grab your tickets, rally your friends and experience Western Canada’s biggest celebration of independent filmmaking!

When: Thursday, April 16 to Sunday, April 26, 2026
Time: Times vary
Where: Globe Cinema – 617 8th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: $12 regular admission tickets

Recent Posts:
10 things to do in and around Calgary this week (March 23-27)
Experience the National Women’s Show in Calgary this April

Kaiya Williams

Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.

Read articles