2026 Tickets
The 2026 festival tickets and program schedule will be available in the coming months. Check back in!
We have a variety of ticket options that range from one show to a day pass to the whole weekend.
Travel and Lodging
Stay in the charming Appalachian town of Highlands, North Carolina—where breathtaking nature meets small-town warmth. Make the most of your festival experience surrounded by scenic beauty and local hospitality.
About the film festival
Born from a love of film, creativity, and community, the Highlands–Cashiers Film Festival is an annual celebration of storytelling in all its forms. By bringing together filmmakers, media artists, and audiences from around the world, the festival creates a unique in-person experience where stories inspire, connect, and ignite conversation. Supported by volunteers and benefitting the Performing Arts Center, it uplifts emerging voices, fosters artistic exchange, and honors film’s power to reveal the extraordinary in everyday life.
Upcoming Events
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Trail Mix: Finding Yourself on the Appalachian Trail
June 20th
The 2025 Audience Choice Award winner will be shown at the PAC in Highlands and at the Village Green in Cashiers.
The director, Glenn Sweitzer, will be at both events to discuss the film and answer questions.
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The Gardener + Walk in the Garden Soiree
Aug 15th
This feature film was filmed in Highlands and held its exclusive world premiere as the opening night event of the inaugural Highlands-Cashiers Film Festival.
It will be shown at the PAC in Highlands with the director, Dabney Day. The film will be followed by a "Walk in the Garden Soiree”.
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Never Not Yours
Aug 16th
The 2025 Feature Film Award winner will be shown at the Village Green in Cashiers. The film directors will be on hand at the Village Green to discuss the film and its genesis.
The film earned significant accolades at other major stops on its film festival circuit and is considered a festival favorite.
Support the festival
Help us bring this festival to life! As a mostly volunteer-run event, your support goes a long way in making it all possible—from screening films to hosting events and welcoming artists. Every donation, big or small, helps us celebrate creativity and community.
Celebrating our 2025 festival
The inaugural Highlands Cashiers Film Festival was a huge success, bringing over 1,500 film lovers together for four unforgettable days of movies, music, and community.
Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, filmmakers, and attendees, we raised over $150,000 to benefit the Highlands Performing Arts Center. Your support made this exciting new tradition possible.
2025 Festival Film Reel
Check out the complete reel of the 2025 festival finalists.
