Pennsylvania’s “Filmmakers’ Film Festival” prepares for a weekend of independent cinema, workshops, community programs and filmmaker hospitality
Reading, PA (The Hollywood Times) 8/4/26 – The Hollywood Times is thrilled to announce a new media partnership with Reading FilmFEST, an independent festival created by filmmakers for filmmakers and film lovers.
Following a wonderful Zoom meeting with Reading FilmFEST representatives Tracy Schott and Eliza Taylor, along with The Hollywood Times’ Teri Kinne, I came away genuinely excited about the festival, the people behind it and the creative community it represents.
The 2026 Reading FilmFEST will take place November 6–8 in Reading, Pennsylvania, bringing together independent films, panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities for filmmakers and audiences throughout Berks County, Lancaster County and the greater Pennsylvania film community.
What immediately stood out to us was the festival’s heart.
Reading FilmFEST was founded in 2015 through the local film office with a mission that goes beyond simply screening movies. The festival introduces visiting filmmakers to Reading, its architecture, history and production possibilities. Filmmakers have toured the area during previous festivals and later returned to shoot projects there.
The festival also works hard to make filmmakers feel truly welcome. Attending filmmakers may receive assistance with hotel accommodations, meals, transportation and festival experiences—support that can make the difference for independent artists who may not otherwise be able to attend in person.
That dedication has helped Reading FilmFEST earn its reputation as a true “Filmmakers’ Film Festival.”
Reading is a city filled with historic architecture, longtime immigrant communities and a large Latino population. The festival reflects that diversity by working with community organizations and creating programs designed to bring different audiences into the theater.
Among the plans discussed for this year are a women filmmakers’ block sponsored by AAUW and the League of Women Voters, along with a special program examining women, media and political representation.
The festival is also developing an animation block featuring Flow, with support from the Latino Chamber to make the screening accessible to local families. Because the animated film relies very little on spoken dialogue, it can be enjoyed by both English- and Spanish-speaking audiences.
Another community partnership will feature a film connected to a local immigration organization, although the title had not yet been selected at the time of our meeting.
Reading FilmFEST is also planning several educational and industry-focused programs.
Jared Hoffa, founder of PixQuid, is expected to lead a workshop exploring artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The session may include a hands-on opportunity for participants to collaborate on creating a short AI-generated film.
AI remains one of the most debated subjects in entertainment, but it is already affecting how films are developed, produced and distributed. The workshop will give filmmakers an opportunity to explore the technology and participate in that growing conversation.
An acting workshop is also planned to help stage performers understand the differences between theater and acting for the camera. Reading has several community theaters and a strong population of stage actors interested in moving into film, making the workshop especially meaningful for the region.
One of the festival’s most exciting traditions is its opening-night celebration.
This year’s VIP gala is planned for the historic Trexler Mansion, a late-19th-century property undergoing an extensive renovation. Festival organizers expect their celebration to be among the first major events held there following its restoration.
Filmmakers will be transported to the gala and welcomed with the kind of excitement and appreciation generally associated with much larger festivals. The goal is simple: make every visiting filmmaker feel as though their work matters.
As a media partner, The Hollywood Times will provide advance editorial coverage, filmmaker interviews and social media promotion leading up to the November festival.
Whenever possible, our writers will receive screeners in advance and conduct interviews approximately two weeks before each film’s screening. This gives our team time to watch the films, speak thoughtfully with the filmmakers and publish stories that can help build audience interest and ticket sales.
Most of our coverage will be conducted virtually, allowing The Hollywood Times to introduce Reading FilmFEST and its filmmakers to readers across the country. We are also exploring possibilities for student videographers, red-carpet coverage and simple livestreaming options during the three-day festival.
The final film selections are expected to be shared soon, followed by individual film announcements and spotlights as the festival approaches.
As Publisher and Senior Editor of The Hollywood Times, I am proud to begin this partnership. Reading FilmFEST celebrates independent cinema, women filmmakers, cultural diversity, education and community engagement while giving filmmakers the support and recognition they deserve.
We look forward to introducing our readers to the films, filmmakers and people who make Reading FilmFEST such a special event.
Reading FilmFEST takes place November 6–8, 2026, in Reading, Pennsylvania.
