FORT SMITH, Ark. — The River Valley Film Society is gearing up for a busy fall with early bird VIP tickets now on sale for the 6th Annual Fort Smith International Film Festival, a call for festival volunteers, and a free Bikes at the Bakery movie night and community ride.

142 Films Coming to Downtown Fort Smith

The Fort Smith International Film Festival returns November 5–7, 2026, featuring 142 international, regional, and local independent films at nine locations across downtown Fort Smith: 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 Fort Smith’s newest venue, Shanny’s Pour House.

“We cannot wait to host the film festival along Garrison Avenue with the Red Autumn Arts Festival and Main Street’s Arts Walk,” says Dr. Brandon Chase Goldsmith, Executive Director of the Fort Smith International Film Festival. “Having film, art, music and more will bring a creative energy downtown, showcasing our unique city and wonderful people.”

The weekend will bring multiple arts events together across downtown, including the Red Autumn Arts Festival at the Wyndham Ballroom on November 6–7 and the Garrison Arts Walk on Saturday, November 7.

Early bird VIP passes for the 2026 Fort Smith International Film Festival are now on sale. Festivalgoers can save 30% through October 2, with VIP passes priced at $35. VIP attendees can experience festival after-parties, the VIP Lounge, meet filmmakers, and enjoy three days of independent film. Tickets are available at FortSmithFilm.com.

Volunteers Needed for the Film Festival

The Fort Smith International Film Festival is also recruiting volunteers to help welcome filmmakers and audiences to Fort Smith. “Volunteers are the backbone of any nonprofit, bringing the energy, heart and teamwork to make it all possible,” says Alyxandria Banning, Volunteer Coordinator. “The Fort Smith International Film Festival is a place where great films, great people, and plenty of fun come together.”

Volunteers get a front-row experience at the festival, with opportunities to attend panels and movies while meeting filmmakers from Arkansas, across the country, and around the world. Volunteer registration is available at FortSmithFilm.com/Volunteer.

Bikes at the Bakery Movie Night September 18

Before the November festival, the River Valley Film Society will continue its year-round community programming with a special Riverfront Roll Community Ride & Bike Movie Night at the Bakery District on Friday, September 18.

The free, all-ages event begins with a 6:00 p.m. screening, followed by a 6:30 p.m. community bike ride to the riverfront.

The evening will feature “Doom & Despair,” following Zach Gass as he attempts one of the country’s most difficult bike-packing races through the Arkansas Ozarks.

Following the movie, cyclists will leave the Bakery District for a community ride to the riverfront. Three different trail options will accommodate a range of riders, from a leisurely route for children and families to an off-road mountain bike option. Whether participants are seasoned cyclists or just getting started, the event offers an opportunity to meet new people and experience Fort Smith’s trails and riverfront.

EVENT INFORMATION

Bikes at the Bakery: Riverfront Roll & Bike Movie Night

  • Friday, September 18, 2026
  • Movie: 6:00 p.m. | Community Ride: 6:30 p.m.
  • Bakery District
  • FREE — All Ages

6th Annual Fort Smith International Film Festival

  • November 5–7, 2026
  • 142 Films | Nine Downtown Locations
  • Early Bird VIP: $35 through October 2
  • Tickets & Information: FortSmithFilm.com
  • Volunteer: FortSmithFilm.com/Volunteer