The Lower East Side Film Festival is 5 days of Cinema, Culture & Chaos in The Lower East Side. Running April 30-May 4, 2026 this will be the 16th annual of the festival. Year after year New Yorkers come back for the exclusivity they crave, creativity, and the unique LESFF experience.
Celebrating indie-filmmaking and hosting a community of filmmakers and film-lovers through screenings, drive-in movies, block parties, pool parties, stand -up comedy, live music, drag shows. In storefronts, on rooftops, in underground clubs, and even one year a “Meatball Night”.
Combining visionary, independent filmmaking with the counterculture spirit of the Lower East Side is the commitment of this festival. Opening Night Film is the NY Premiere of RUN AMOK. Closing Night Film is a New York Premiere of PUBLIC ACCESS. Stay Indie Spotlight is a NYC premiere of THE ARK. The full festival lineup of films is to be announced April 15, 2026.