Omaha Film Festival

Founded in 2005, the Omaha Film Festival is the city's main showcase for independent cinema. Each March it screens around 100 films picked from close to 1,000 submissions, mixing international, national and local work.

The lineup covers narrative features, documentaries, short film blocks and animation, with a dedicated section for movies made in Nebraska. Many filmmakers come to town for their screenings and stay afterward to answer questions, which gives the festival a friendly, conversational feel.

Screenings take place at Aksarben Cinema in Aksarben Village, so there are restaurants, bars and hotels within walking distance between films. Passes and individual tickets are sold online and at the festival box office.

The 2026 edition was the festival's 21st season.

Highlights

• About 100 films selected from nearly 1,000 entries
• Features, documentaries, shorts and animation
• Nebraska-made film showcase
• Post-screening Q&As with visiting filmmakers
• All in one walkable spot at Aksarben Village

Tips for going

• Buy a pass if you plan to see more than a few blocks; popular screenings sell out.
• Check the schedule early and plan meals between blocks at Aksarben Village restaurants.
• Aksarben Village has free surface and garage parking nearby.
• Stay for the Q&As; they are often the highlight.
• Lodging near Aksarben Village keeps everything walkable.