2026 Film Festival Overview
From thought-provoking features and standout shorts to engaging Q&As and lively filmmaker après events, Whistler Film Festival (WFF) brings the world of cinema to the snow-capped mountains of Whistler. Experience inspiring stories, connect with filmmakers and celebrate the magic of film as the holiday season begins.
WFF has built a reputation as a festival that celebrates international filmmaking and storytelling, with a spotlight on British Columbia’s creative talent. Known for its intimate vibe, don't be surprised if you find yourself sharing a gondola with some of North America's most celebrated filmmakers or stars.
The 2026 film lineup includes the star power of Aidan Quinn, Dominic Cooper, Sarah Gadon, Emily Beecham, Sarah Bolger and Chris Carter to name a few.
Film Highlights
Canadian storytelling takes centre stage in the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature Film, showcasing compelling documentaries such as Ceremony by director Banchi Hanuse, alongside special presentations including Queens for a Day from The X-Files creator Chris Carter and The Lightkeeper by director Vic Sarin.
To round out the Signature Series lineup, filmmaker Marie Clements (How We Stand) leads a masterclass, while Canadian icon Rick Hansen (Man in Motion: The Rick Hansen Story) takes part in a Talent Talk. Both films are also screening at the festival, including director Adrian Buitenhuis’s portrait of Hansen’s historic Man In Motion World Tour.
Other highlights include:
- Petra’s Lasso 2025 | Mexico-Canada | Whistler Premiere | Directed by Gigi Saul Guerrero
- The Last Caller 2026 | British Columbia | Whistler Premiere | Directed by Mariel Calvo
- Split Ends 2026 | British Columbia | Whistler Premiere | Directed by Kay Metchie
The full 2026 film lineup will be announced November 3.
Borsos Competition
The Whistler Film Festival’s (WFF) prestigious Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature is overseen by a jury of some of the country’s most accomplished film and screen talent. The annual competition – named after the legendary Canadian filmmaker Philip Borsos – awards $35,000 in cash and in-kind prizes for several categories including Best Canadian Feature and Best Director, making it the second largest in the country.
Film and Event Tickets
Don't miss out on the action! Film passes, ticket packs and Industry Passes are on sale now. The complete lineup and schedule will be announced November 3 at 10 AM. Ticket pack holders receive 24-hour priority access before individual film tickets are released on November 4.
View ticket packs & passes.
Industry Access
Industry and Premium Industry Passes are now available.
2026 Content Summit
Learn, connect and network at the WFF Content Summit, taking place December 2, 2026.
The summit brings together industry leaders for thought-provoking panels, workshops, one-on-one market meetings, round tables and Signature Series events including an on-stage masterclass with Queens for a Day director and The X-Files creator Chris Carter.
Gain insights from industry experts and connect directly with streamers, broadcasters, distributors and key decision-makers through a dynamic mix of programming and networking opportunities.
Discover more Content Summit highlights and how to participate. Content Summit Overview
Between screenings, $100 to spend in Whistler’s shops
Premieres, panels and filmmakers in town, with fresh tracks waiting between screenings. Book a 3+ night stay for the Whistler Film Festival and we’ll add a $100 shopping credit for Whistler’s local stores. Ski in the morning, catch a premiere by evening, and browse the village shops in between.
Book your festival stay with SHOPWHIS at check-out, or call 1.800.944.7853 and mention this offer to one of our Whistler-based Travel Consultants. Book by December 20 for the best deals on lodging.
Offer Details:
- Enter promo code: SHOPWHIS
- Valid for arrivals from: November 19 - December 20, 2026
- Minimum 3-night stay applies
- Unused Credits expire: December 24, 2026
- Credits are only available while quantities last
Festival Accommodation Partners
About the Whistler Film Festival Society
The Whistler Film Festival Society (WFFS) is a charitable, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the art and business of film by providing programs that focus on the discovery, development and promotion of talent culminating with a must-attend festival for artists, the industry and audiences in Whistler each December.
WFFS fulfills its mission through producing:
- A highly respected and recognized international film festival (WFF) and Content Summit that draw artists, industry, audiences and global exposure for Canadian talent
- Supplemental year-round film and event programming that enriches community life beyond the festival
- Market-driven, domestic talent development and promotion programs with proven impact
- Film and talent programming that nurtures gender parity, inclusivity and diversity
WFF is committed to cultivating and preserving a culture of equity, inclusion and diversity that includes gender parity, Indigenous values, the experiences of racialized communities and traditionally marginalized groups. WFF continues to expand these efforts across its people and programs, reflecting diverse stories on screen and behind the scenes.
The Whistler Film Festival Society is situated on the shared traditional and unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation and Líl̓wat7úl (Lil’wat) Nation.
Whistler Trip Planning Resources
30 Years of Whistler
Cornucopia
A successful festival grows and evolves, and that's what Whistler Cornucopia has done over three decades. Find out what makes it irresistible.
Nov 19 – Dec 20
Embrace the Winter Buildup
with Early Season Deals
Shorter days, brighter nights and the first turns of the season. Get in on the excitement with festive events, Village experiences and great lodging deals.
Winter 2026/27 Packages
Book by Nov 30 & Save 25%
Secure your winter getaway early and save up to 25% on lodging, plus receive a free $225 Dining Credit when you book with Whistler.com.