Ripley County Film Fest ## About the Event The Ripley County Film Fest is a vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community that brings together filmmakers of all experience levels to share their passion for cinema. This week-long festival showcases original short films spanning diverse genres—from heartwarming family tales and quirky comedies to thrilling mysteries and powerful dramas. What makes this event truly special is its commitment to inclusivity; whether you're an experienced filmmaker, a student, or simply someone with a passion for storytelling, you'll find a welcoming home here. The festival creates an electric atmosphere where local talent takes center stage, and audiences experience the magic of film in an intimate, authentic setting. The Ripley County Community Foundation, in partnership with two historic theaters, has created something rare in today's entertainment landscape: an event that honors both emerging filmmakers and the cultural landmarks that bring their visions to life. ## The Surrounding Area Batesville and Osgood are charming small towns in Ripley County that embody the heart of rural Indiana. These communities offer visitors a glimpse into authentic Hoosier life, with tree-lined streets, welcoming locals, and a strong sense of place. The area is rich in history and small-town character, making it an ideal backdrop for a community-focused arts event. The festival's venues themselves are attractions worth experiencing. The Gibson Theatre in Batesville and the Damm Theatre in Osgood are among the last remaining single-screen theaters in the region—treasured landmarks that preserve the charm of classic cinema. These historic venues transport visitors back to a golden age of moviegoing, offering a rare and authentic theatrical experience that multiplexes simply cannot replicate. ## Activities & Attractions The festival runs throughout the week with nightly screenings of locally submitted short films, each evening culminating in a Hollywood movie for additional entertainment. The week features approximately 16 original short films showcasing the region's creative talent. A highlight of the festival is the 24-Hour Filmmakers Challenge, an exciting competition where creative teams have just one day to write, shoot, and edit a short film. These rapid-fire creations are screened during the festival's grand finale, adding spontaneity and energy to the event. The festival culminates on Saturday with a grand finale celebration featuring awards ceremonies honoring outstanding filmmakers across multiple categories, including Best Overall, People's Choice, Best Production, Best Story, and Rising Star awards. This celebration of achievement creates memorable moments for filmmakers and audiences alike. ## Schedule & Logistics The 2026 Ripley County Film Fest runs June 2-6, 2026. Screenings take place at the Gibson Theatre in Batesville on Tuesday, June 2, Thursday, June 4, and Saturday, June 6, with additional screenings at the Damm Theatre in Osgood on other evenings. The Saturday, June 6 finale features the winning films and awards ceremony. Nightly screenings begin in the evenings, with specific showtimes available through the Ripley County Community Foundation. Admission details and parking information can be obtained through the foundation's website or by contacting them directly. ## History & Heritage The inaugural Ripley County Film Fest launched in June 2025 as a groundbreaking celebration of local creativity and artistic expression. Made possible in part by a generous grant from the Indiana Arts Commission, the festival was born from the Ripley County Community Foundation's vision to foster creativity, imagination, and a sense of community pride. The first festival exceeded expectations, welcoming nearly 500 attendees during its inaugural week. This tremendous response demonstrated the community's hunger for arts programming and local storytelling opportunities. The decision to host the festival in historic single-screen theaters was intentional and meaningful—these venues represent cultural heritage and provide filmmakers with the rare privilege of seeing their work projected in iconic spaces. The festival's success has cemented its place on Indiana's cultural calendar, with plans already underway for the 2026 edition. Submissions for the upcoming festival open November 3, 2025, and close April 1, 2026, through FilmFreeway.