“The HSDFF Filmmaker Forum is a two-day filmmaker/industry conference and convening to be held Monday, October 12 – Tuesday, October 13, 2026 during this year’s 35th annual Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival (October 9 – 17).

“Taking place in scenic Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, the Filmmaker Forum offers dynamic programming focused on the business, art and craft of documentary storytelling. The Forum is a major annual convening of filmmakers and industry leaders from throughout the U.S.

“With a focus on public media, as well as a wider lens on the nonfiction ecosystem as a whole, the Forum is a unique and essential professional development opportunity for filmmakers and a major regional convening of filmmakers and industry leaders. Our goal is to create unique and dynamic programming intended to inform and inspire.

“Join approximately 125 filmmakers and 50 industry leaders for the 4th annual Forum, for two days of engaging panels, conversations, breakouts, meetings, screenings and parties.”

Cost is $95 (early bird); after July 31: $125.