Banff Mountain Film Festival

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival – Where Adventure Meets Art

Nestled in the heart of Canada’s Rockies, the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival is the ultimate convergence of storytelling, exploration, and mountain culture. Every fall, filmmakers and adventure lovers from across the globe gather in Banff, Alberta to celebrate films, literature, and talks that propel outdoor storytelling to new heights.

What you can expect
At the week-long Festival (held November 1–9, 2025), you’ll experience spectacular cinema, author readings, and curated exhibitions—all centered on mountain adventure, culture, and environmental awareness. Think epic visuals, moving narratives, outdoor wisdom, and a festival marketplace full of mountain-centric art and gear. There's even the special Fire and Ice Symposium, exploring climate issues like wildfire and shrinking ice through powerful storytelling.

Why filmmakers and producers should care

World-class platform: As one of the globe’s top mountain culture festivals, it showcases around 80 films selected from roughly 400 submissions, with awards across multiple categories.

Global reach: After the on-site Festival, selected films tour the world—over 600 communities across 40+ countries, turning your local screen into a global stage.

Networking gold: Walk the same snow-dusted halls as directors, adventurers, gear brands, and storytellers. Collaboration and inspiration happen organically here.

Festival impact
Founded in 1976 (as part of the Banff Centre), this event is a long-running legacy of creative excellence that originally offered a single drama workshop back in 1933. Today it’s a cultural powerhouse—spanning film, books, residencies, and immersive events—rooted in inspiring creative leaders across disciplines.

Stories aren’t just shared—they’re lived. Whether it’s a gripping climb, an environmental call-to-action, or a poetic mountain memoir, this festival connects creators and audiences through emotional and visual impact.

Submission and Engagement
Submit your short or feature film focused on mountain themes, adventure, environment, or culture. If selected, you may get screened in Banff and considered for the World Tour. Festival winners earn prestige, audience attention, and long-term exposure.

In a nutshell
The Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement celebrating mountain creativity, curiosity, and connection. For filmmakers, it’s your moment to shine on rugged peaks and world stages alike. FilmTeam users, this is one to watch, submit to, and champion.