6 Underground Film Festivals in Washington State

Washington State has a lively film culture that stretches well beyond the big theaters. Some of the most interesting screenings happen in smaller, lesser-known festivals where independent voices shine.

These gatherings focus on experimental work, local stories, or films that don’t fit into mainstream categories. If you enjoy cinema that pushes boundaries, here are six underground festivals in Washington worth knowing about.

1. Local Sightings Film Festival (Seattle)

Every September, cinema lovers pack into the Northwest Film Forum for Local Sightings Film Festival. The event feels like the heartbeat of the regional film scene, pulsing with creativity from filmmakers of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. It’s where I saw a documentary about Seattle’s coffee shop culture and chatted with the director afterward over espresso.

What sets Local Sightings apart is its strong focus on regional identity. You’ll find shorts, features, and even experimental projects that tackle local issues, from gentrification to salmon conservation. When I attended, I was struck by the supportive atmosphere, audiences stuck around after screenings for lively discussions, and filmmakers were open to honest feedback.

This festival welcomes both newcomers and experienced creators. The programming rarely feels repetitive since each year’s selection brings something unexpected. For those eager to experience the pulse of Pacific Northwest filmmaking, Local Sightings is a must. It’s not just about watching films; it’s about being part of a community that values fresh perspectives and regional storytelling.

2. Bleedingham Horror Film Festival (Bellingham)

At Bleedingham Horror Film Festival, Halloween lasts just a bit longer. I still remember walking into the theater, greeted by fog machines and the scent of popcorn. People wore everything from classic vampire capes to zombie makeup, and the energy was electric.

The festival specializes in short horror films, many crafted by Washington-based talent. Screenings cover the spectrum, from supernatural tales to psychological thrillers. Filmmaker Q&As often follow, where you get to hear about how directors create tension or build a monster on a shoestring budget. It’s a rare chance to dig into the craftsmanship of fear.

Bleedingham also awards prizes for categories like best practical effects or scariest scene. I appreciated how approachable the event felt, no blockbuster pressure, just an honest celebration of indie horror. For fans of frights who want to support local voices, Bleedingham is one of the most welcoming, inventive corners of Washington’s film scene.

3. Seattle Transmedia & Independent Film Festival (STIFF)

Seattle Transmedia & Independent Film Festival (STIFF) has changed shape over the years, sometimes smaller and more experimental, but it remains one of the few festivals in Washington dedicated to pushing beyond traditional film formats.

The first time I went to STIFF, it was impossible to predict what I’d see next. One room had a row of VR headsets, and another buzzed with a filmmaker explaining their interactive web series. This festival stands out for welcoming not just films but transmedia projects and experimental storytelling.

I met creators showing everything from narrative shorts to immersive experiences that challenged my definition of cinema. The lineup always crosses genres, animation, feature, documentary, but what ties everything together is the urge to experiment and question how stories get told. If you’re open to surprises, STIFF delivers.

Beyond screenings, there are workshops and panels where industry insiders share insights on new technology and storytelling formats. The atmosphere isn’t intimidating; in fact, it feels like everyone is learning together. If you want to see where indie film could go next, this is the festival to watch.

4. Spokane International Film Festival (SpIFF)

Tucked away in Spokane’s historic theaters, SpIFF has an understated charm. Held each late winter, it’s one of Spokane’s longest-running cultural events, celebrating 25+ years in the city. My favorite part was wandering from venue to venue downtown, discovering films I couldn’t find anywhere else. The festival draws a mix of local creators and international voices, all sharing work outside the mainstream.

The screenings are intimate, often with fewer than a hundred people in the audience. There’s an easy rhythm here, with time to chat between films and ask questions after each screening. I loved the way this setup turned strangers into friends by the end of the weekend.

The selection leans toward shorts, features, and documentaries that tell unusual or daring stories. You won’t see big studio premieres, but you will leave with a list of new films, and often, new friends. If you want a festival that values conversation over spectacle, SpIFF delivers.

5. Children’s Film Festival Seattle

Hosted by Northwest Film Forum, Children’s Film Festival Seattle is packed with color and enthusiasm. The first screening I went to was full of laughter, with kids and parents responding to heartfelt short films from across the globe. This festival doesn’t just cater to children, it invites adults to see the world through fresh eyes, too.

Programming highlights global stories, often featuring voices underrepresented in big studio releases. I appreciated the variety, from animated shorts to thought-provoking documentaries. The selection always feels purposeful, shining a light on stories that challenge and inspire.

There are workshops and events where young filmmakers can try making their own movies or ask questions after screenings. The atmosphere is warm and inclusive. In a city known for innovation, this festival champions creativity and diversity in the next generation of storytellers.

6. Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival (Bellingham)

Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival offers a refreshing focus: all films are directed by women. The event is small but thoughtfully curated, giving space to stories you rarely see in larger festivals. I remember listening to a director from Bellingham share her experience balancing motherhood and filmmaking.

Screenings highlight a range of genres and styles, from local Pacific Northwest shorts to international features. The pace is relaxed, allowing for genuine conversations before and after each film. Audiences often get to meet the directors, hear their challenges, and celebrate their achievements up close.

There’s something deeply personal about Cascadia’s approach. The festival isn’t flashy, but it’s dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices. It takes place each May in downtown Bellingham, drawing directors and audiences from across the U.S. and abroad. If you’re interested in stories told from unique perspectives, this gathering in Bellingham is worth the trip.