The River Valley Film Society is gearing up for a bustling fall in Fort Smith. The 6th Annual Fort Smith International Film Festival returns Nov. 5‑7, 2026, presenting 142 international, regional and local independent films at nine downtown locations, including the Wyndham Fort Smith City Center, Bakery District, 5 Star Productions, La Huerta, Fort Smith Museum of History, 906 Lounge, Garrison Commons Pocket Park, Digs and Shanny’s Pour House.
Festival Highlights
Festivalgoers can expect a packed schedule of screenings, panels and after‑parties. Early‑bird VIP passes are on sale for $35 through Oct. 2, offering a 30% discount, access to a VIP lounge, meet‑and‑greet opportunities with filmmakers and exclusive after‑parties.
In addition to the film program, downtown Fort Smith will host the Red Autumn Arts Festival at the Wyndham Ballroom on Nov. 6‑7 and the Garrison Arts Walk on Saturday, Nov. 7, creating a weekend of film, art, music and community celebration.
Volunteer Opportunities
The festival is also seeking volunteers to welcome filmmakers and audiences. Volunteers will receive complimentary access to panels and movies while helping the event run smoothly. Registration is available at FortSmithFilm.com/Volunteer.
Free Bike‑Movie Night – Sept. 18
Before the November festival, the River Valley Film Society will host a free, all‑ages movie night and community bike ride on Friday, Sept. 18, at the Bakery District. The evening begins with a 6 p.m. screening of “Doom & Despair,” a documentary following Zach Gass as he tackles one of the nation’s toughest bike‑packing races through the Arkansas Ozarks.
After the film, cyclists will depart the Bakery District at 6:30 p.m. for a community ride to the riverfront. Three trail options will be offered, including a leisurely route for families and an off‑road mountain‑bike trail for experienced riders. The event is free and open to all ages, providing a chance for both seasoned cyclists and newcomers to explore Fort Smith’s trails and meet fellow riders.
Tickets and Information
Tickets and full festival details are available at FortSmithFilm.com. Early‑bird VIP passes are limited, so interested attendees are encouraged to purchase soon.
With a robust lineup of films, volunteer opportunities, and a family‑friendly bike‑movie night, Fort Smith’s fall cultural calendar promises to bring the city’s creative community together for a memorable season.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
