The Black Hills Film Festival returns to Rapid City for its 17th year, bringing together filmmakers, storytellers, and audiences for a weekend celebrating independent cinema in the heart of the Black Hills. Held at The Journey Museum, the festival showcases a carefully curated selection of regional, national, and international films, highlighting diverse voices, compelling stories, and unique perspectives from around the world.
The 2026 festival features three days of screenings, filmmaker discussions, networking opportunities, and special events. Programming includes feature-length films, documentaries, shorts, student work, South Dakota-made films, and Native American storytelling, offering audiences a broad range of cinematic experiences.
The festival opens Friday, October 2, with an evening screening session beginning at 6:30 p.m. Saturday's schedule starts with free panel discussions from 10:00 a.m. to noon, followed by afternoon and evening film blocks at 1:00 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Sunday continues with film sessions beginning at 1:00 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., concluding with the Audience Choice Award presentation at 6:00 p.m. Check out trailers and individual films here.
In addition to the screenings, audiences will have opportunities to engage directly with filmmakers through post-screening discussions, learn more about the filmmaking process during panel presentations, and connect with fellow film enthusiasts throughout the weekend. Whether you're a dedicated film lover or simply looking for an inspiring cultural experience, the Black Hills Film Festival offers an intimate and welcoming environment to discover outstanding independent films.
Join us for three days of storytelling, creativity, and conversation as filmmakers and audiences gather to celebrate the power of independent film in the Black Hills.
Festival Location: The Journey Museum, 222 New York Street, Rapid City, SD
Festival Dates: October 2–4, 2026
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