Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival

The Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, often simply referred to as HSDFF by locals and repeat attendees, is a nine-day celebration of nonfiction filmmaking that transforms the historic Spa City of Hot Springs, Arkansas, into a vibrant hub of cinematic excellence.

This festival is tailored for film enthusiasts, filmmakers, and industry professionals who gather to indulge in the best of international documentary filmmaking. The target audience includes families, students, and anyone with a passion for storytelling through documentaries. Notable guests and local legends in the documentary film industry are regular attendees, adding to the festival’s prestige and allure.

The 34th annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival takes place from October 10 to October 18, 2025. Each day is filled with a variety of events, including screenings of over 100 international feature and short documentaries, gala screenings, and on-stage award ceremonies. The festival kicks off with an Opening Night Gala and culminates in a Closing Night Gala, with a Centerpiece Gala sandwiched in between. Special happenings include the Career Achievement Award and the Impact Award ceremonies, which honor distinguished filmmakers and industry leaders.

The festival is primarily hosted at various downtown theaters and venues, with the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa serving as a central hub. Located at 239 Central Avenue in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the venue is easily accessible by car via highways such as US-70 and US-71. The nearest airport is the Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, about a two-hour drive away. Local transportation and walking routes make it convenient for attendees to navigate the festival’s various locations.

Hot Springs itself is a unique vacation destination, known for its natural hot springs and historic architecture. The festival leverages the city’s charm, with most screenings and events held within easy walking distance, allowing attendees to absorb the city’s atmosphere.

What makes this festival unique is its rich history as the longest-running nonfiction film festival in North America and its designation as an Academy Award-qualifying festival for Documentary Short Subject. Attendees get to experience a multicultural and intergenerational event that brings together thousands of visitors. The festival includes a Filmmaker Forum, a three-day conference from October 12 to October 14, where industry professionals and emerging filmmakers can network and learn from each other.

Signature experiences include the opportunity to watch a diverse selection of documentaries, attend exclusive gala events, and participate in award ceremonies that recognize excellence in documentary filmmaking. The festival’s warm and hospitable environment, highlighted by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the “50 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee,” makes it a standout event for anyone passionate about documentary films.

In the evenings, the city comes alive with parties and networking events, fostering a sense of community among filmmakers and film lovers. The historic setting of Hot Springs, with its blend of natural beauty and architectural heritage, provides a unique backdrop for this celebration of documentary filmmaking, making the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival an event not to be missed.