Lights, camera, Waco!
The Waco Independent Film Festival is back in town for its 10th anniversary, July 16-19, with four days full of independent films, filmmaker Q&As, networking opportunities, and plenty of creative experiences to discover in Downtown Waco. What originally started as a local tradition has evolved into an internationally recognized event, receiving recognition from MovieMaker Magazine as one of the coolest film festivals to attend.
Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a first-time attendee, or traveling to Waco for the festival, here is everything you need to know before you go.
Waco Indie isn’t your typical film festival. Yes, there are screenings — but what makes it worth clearing your weekend is everything happening around them. You’ll watch films you genuinely can’t find anywhere else, hear directly from the people who made them, and share the experience with a crowd that spans local Wacoans, Texas road-trippers, and international attendees who made the trip specifically for this.
For 10 years, the festival has been one of the clearest expressions of what Downtown Waco’s creative community looks like at its best. If you’ve ever wanted a reason to spend a long weekend downtown with something to anchor it, this is it.
Festival Basics
Dates: July 16-19, 2026
Location: Downtown Waco
Online Encore: July 19-25, 2026
Festival attendees can expect a packed schedule featuring:
- Independent short/feature films
- Documentary screenings
- Filmmaker Q&As
- Panel discussions
- Festival parties and events
Network and Meet Creatives
Waco Indie is more than a series of film screenings — it’s a gathering place for creators and those interested in the arts.
Filmmakers, writers, producers, and artists across creative disciplines all come together for the weekend. If you’re interested in creative industries, don’t skip out on the panels, Q&As, or social events. They often offer some of the festival’s most memorable moments!
Not a film expert? Not a problem!
Waco Independent Film Festival welcomes everyone regardless of their experience. Attendees from all across Texas and the world come to share their love of movies in an approachable and community-focused setting.
To make the most of your festival-going experience:
- Purchase your tickets or passes early
- Review the schedule before arriving
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
- Arrive early for popular screenings
- Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation!
Make Time to Explore Downtown Waco
One of the best aspects of Waco Indie is its location in the heart of downtown.
Between screenings, take advantage of your time to visit local shops, restaurants, public art, and attractions that make Downtown Waco a year-round destination. The festival itself embraces Waco’s creative culture, making it the perfect opportunity to explore not only the independent films but the city hosting it.
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