🏳️🌈 SPARK SHORT FILM FESTIVAL - SPRING 2026 🏳️🌈
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“Those who write and direct films are our cultural narrators. The stories they tell shape our worldviews.” – Robin DiAngelo
“Stories of joy, health, and connection and visions of the world ahead.”
SparkShort Film Festival returns June 20, 2026 4PM at Fitz Books and Waffles!
This year, we're amplifying short films that imagine the world rooted in joy, love, healing, and human connection; stories that expand consciousness, celebrate our shared humanity, and envision daily lives, communities, and systems aligned with the best of who we can be. FREE
Submissions have closed.
We’re seeking vertical and horizontal micro-short films (5 minutes and under, before credits) that imagine the world we’re building together—rooted in joy, love, health, and human connection. Show us bold, hopeful visions of daily life, community, and governance aligned with the best of who we can be.
Selected films screen for diverse audiences at our free events, with up to 1.5 hours of programming in accessible venues.
Since 2019, the Spark Micro-Short Film Festival (formerly known as MicroMania) has ignited a global community of storytellers—proving that powerful cinema can unfold in five minutes or less. To date, we’ve received 1,186 submissions from 49 countries, showcasing an extraordinary range of voices, visions, and creative courage.
Every year, Spark becomes a meeting ground for independent creators and curious audiences—a celebration of connection, empathy, and cultural exchange through the art of short film.
COLLABORATION & SUPPORT
We are grateful for the generous in-kind support of local partners including the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, Buffalo Center for Arts and Technology, Fitz Books & Waffles, Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, Five Points Bakery, Revolution Gallery and Lounge, and WBBZ-TV.
Our work is made possible in part by funding from the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by Arts Services Inc. and Buffalo Common Council discretionary support. We also acknowledge the invaluable media partnership of Buffalo Toronto Public Media.
May all your days and nights be filled with joy and love
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