A horror-themed graphic with a DVD labeled "Horror Film" spattered with blood, and a bloody cleaver labeled "Jacksonville" stabbing through the DVD. The words "Horror Film" are written in black, and "Festival" is written in red, bloody letters.
Red text reading 'First Blood' with a dripping blood effect on a black background.

This year marks our first cut. First Blood is a celebration of new beginnings, born from the carnage of film production. This year, we honor everything first—first films, first scares, first cuts. Whether you're a first-time filmmaker or just unleashing your first on-screen kill, this is your year. First screams. First victims. First Blood.

MARCH 13-14 2026

Buy tickets here!

Ticketbud logo featuring a pink circular emblem with a stylized ticket icon and the company name in lowercase letters.

SUBMISSIONS NOW OPEN!

Black background with the white logo and text of FilmFreeway.

CLICK THE LOGO TO SUBMIT

MISSION

The Jacksonville Horror Film Festival is a high-octane celebration of bold, blood-soaked cinema. We spotlight daring filmmakers who embrace the gritty, the grotesque, and the unforgettable—from grindhouse-inspired shock and sleaze, to character-driven terror. Our mission is to electrify audiences, cultivate a thriving horror scene in Jacksonville, and champion fearless storytelling that pushes boundaries and leaves a mark.

VENUE & SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

HICKS AUDITORIUM

312 North Main St Jacksonville FL 32202

Empty auditorium with a stage, seating, and plants.

Screening Schedule Coming Soon

Poster for Horror Film Festival featuring celebrity judge Franklin Ritch, The Artifice Girl, with an image of Franklin Ritch and a blood-splattered saw labeled Horror Film Festival.
Promotional poster for Horror Film Festival featuring celebrity judge Kainan Becker from Ghost Pirate Entertainment, with a photo of him making a peace sign, and graphic elements including a blood-stained CD with a knife and blood splatters.

AWARDS LIST

Best of the Fest

Best Actor*

Best Supporting Actor*

Best Writer

Best Director

Best Cinematography

Best Sound Design

Best Score

Scream Queen

Best Breasts**

Best Special Effects

Best Editing

Best Makeup

Best Creature Design

Most On Theme (2026: Bloodiest)

Audience Choice

*The Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor Award will be awarded to the best actor and supporting actor of all submissions. There will be no judgement based on gender.

**Best Breasts Award will be judged on the most creative use of nudity in a film. This includes nudity of both genders.

In the event the judges deem the minimum requirements for a category are not met, the award will not be given out for the year

GET INVOLVED

Are you passionate about horror and looking to be part of something thrilling? Whether you want to volunteer behind the scenes or showcase your products as a vendor, we want to hear from you! Jacksonville Horror Festival is calling on dedicated fans, artists, and creators to help bring the event to life. If you're interested in joining the team or setting up a vendor booth, please fill out our contact form and let us know how you'd like to be involved. We'll be in touch soon with more details!

Get Involved