Canton Film Fest

Lights, Camera, Canton: Experience the Canton Film Fest

The Canton Film Festival celebrates the creativity of high school student filmmakers while helping students and families explore real career pathways in film and media right here in Ohio. The festival connects student creators with industry professionals, college programs, and hands-on experiences that inspire, inform and support their next steps.

Teachers or Students

RSVP for free!

Register Today!

General Admission

For parents, families, and the general public

Film Festival Tickets

Film Screening Only

Tickets to the Student Short Film Screening and Feature Film

Movie Only Tickets

Schedule – Updated 1/22/26*

12:30–1:00 PM: Check-in & College Fair Open

1:00–1:15 PM: Welcome

1:30–2:30 PM: Hands-On Sessions + College Fair

2:30–3:30 PM: Panel Discussion – “Reel Jobs, Real Impact: The Future Workforce of Ohio’s Growing Film Industry”

3:30PM: Intermission. Doors Open for Film Screenings

3:45 PM: 3-Minute Film Competition Screening

4:20 PM: Feature Film – Superman

6:25 PM: Film Crew Q&A

6:50PM: 3-Minute Film Competition Awards

The festival will feature

Student Film Competition
A three-minute film challenge judged by a panel of local professionals

College Row
Meet representatives from regional colleges offering film and digital media programs.

Hands-On Gear Demos
Students will explore tools and technology used in film production.

Local Industry Pros
Students will connect with local film and media experts to gain insights and ask questions.

Panel Discussion:

Reel Jobs, Real Impact: The Future Workforce of Ohio’s Growing Film Industry

Sheila Wright
President
The CREW Foundation

Olivia Villasenor
Project Manager
Tri-C Film Academy

Mike Wendt
Production Coordinator
Greater Cleveland Film Commission

For Teachers

The Canton Film Festival is a one-day event designed to inspire your students to explore film, media, and storytelling as real, attainable career paths right here in Ohio.

Teachers receive free admission and access to our Teacher Green Room, a dedicated space to relax, connect with fellow educators, and enjoy refreshments throughout the day.

The Green Room is generously sponsored by Huntington Bank.

For Parents

If your student is passionate about film, media, or storytelling, the Canton Film Festival is a great place to start exploring what their future could look like. This event is designed not just for students, but also for families who want to understand more about the creative careers available right here in Ohio.

Parents are encouraged to attend and meet college representatives, hear from local industry professionals, and learn how the film industry is growing across Northeast Ohio. Whether your student dreams of being behind the camera, editing stories, or working in production, this is a chance to learn what’s possible together.

General admission for non-student attendees is $10 and includes admission to the feature film.

Tickets for Non-Student attendees

General Admission Tickets

For Students

Are you curious about what it’s like to work in film, media, or digital storytelling? Whether you’re already creating content or just starting to explore, the Canton Film Festival is the perfect place to learn, connect, and get inspired.

Films must be submitted by a teacher and represent your school, but you don’t need to submit a film to attend. This event is for any high school student interested in creative careers, or just curious to learn more.

What to expect: