Beaufort, SC, January 11, 2026
The Beaufort International Film Festival is set for its 20th annual celebration, running from February 17 to 22. This year’s festival will showcase 54 films and honor Grainger Hines with the Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award. Attendees can expect a rich program including screenings, masterclasses, and engaging events designed to foster a community spirit and appreciation for filmmaking. The festival stands as a testament to Beaufort’s cultural impact and economic vitality in the Lowcountry.
Beaufort, SC: Catch the Cinematic Wave at BIFF 2026
The Beaufort International Film Festival (BIFF) is preparing for its 20th annual celebration, promising an engaging week of independent cinema in historic Beaufort, SC. From February 17 to February 22, 2026, the festival will showcase a diverse lineup of films and honor the enduring legacy of artistic achievement, further solidifying Beaufort’s reputation as a cultural hub in the Lowcountry.
The Beaufort Film Society, a nonprofit, member-supported organization, is at the helm of this significant Beaufort SC event. Their dedication to fostering an appreciation for filmmaking highlights the power of local initiative and community engagement in bringing world-class artistic experiences to the region. This year marks a significant milestone, underscoring the sustained commitment of local organizers and volunteers who drive the festival’s growth, making it one of the fastest-growing film festivals in the Southeast.
Celebrating Two Decades of Cinematic Excellence
The 20th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival will run from February 17 to February 22, 2026. This milestone event will feature 54 films and 5 screenplays, carefully selected from over 500 submissions originating from 56 countries. The diverse selections include a wide array of genres such as feature films, documentaries, short films, student films, and animations, reflecting a global tapestry of storytelling. Screenings are scheduled daily at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, Center for the Arts, beginning each morning at 9 AM.
Recognizing Individual Achievement: The Pat Conroy Lifetime Award
A highlight of this year’s festival is the presentation of the prestigious Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award to acclaimed actor, writer, and director Grainger Hines. This honor acknowledges Hines’ remarkable six-decade career in film, television, theater, and music, alongside his deep connections to the South Carolina arts community. Hines, a native of Greenwood, South Carolina, began his performing journey in the Palmetto State, initially pursuing music before dedicating himself to acting, which led him to Hollywood and Broadway. The award underscores the festival’s commitment to recognizing individual achievement and the profound impact artists have on their respective fields.
An Immersive Festival Experience
Beyond the film screenings, the festival offers a rich program designed to engage attendees and aspiring filmmakers. The Opening Ceremony Reception on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, will feature “Bette Davis Ain’t For Sissies,” an Off-Broadway one-woman show performed by Jessica Sherr, following the reception at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, Center for the Arts. This blend of film and live performance showcases the broad spectrum of artistic expression celebrated by the festival. Additionally, the festival provides valuable opportunities for learning and networking, including masterclasses and workshops led by industry experts, and various networking events that facilitate connections among filmmakers and enthusiasts. These initiatives foster personal growth and collaborative opportunities within the creative community.
Boosting the Beaufort County Community
The Beaufort International Film Festival is more than just a cultural event; it is a significant contributor to the local economy and the vitality of the Beaufort County community. Considered by many to be the fastest-growing film festival in the Southeast, BIFF attracts filmmakers, artists, and film enthusiasts from across the nation and around the globe. This influx of visitors provides substantial economic benefits through tourism, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. The festival’s ability to draw such a diverse and engaged audience demonstrates the positive outcomes that arise when a community takes the initiative to develop and promote unique cultural experiences.
Volunteers and Local Leadership: The Backbone of Success
The success of the Beaufort International Film Festival is largely attributed to the dedicated efforts of the Beaufort Film Society, its members, and a strong corps of volunteers and staff. Their collective commitment to organizing and executing this multi-day event exemplifies the power of local leadership and civic involvement. By providing opportunities for individuals to contribute their time and talents, the festival cultivates a sense of shared ownership and pride within the community, ensuring the seamless coordination of activities that might otherwise be hindered by extensive bureaucratic processes. This emphasis on personal initiative and efficient organization allows the festival to continue its remarkable growth and impact.
The 20th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival is set to be a vibrant showcase of independent film and artistic achievement, reflecting the dynamic spirit of Beaufort. The festival not only provides a platform for diverse stories and emerging talent but also significantly enhances the cultural and economic landscape of the region. We encourage everyone to mark their calendars for this premier South Carolina SC gathering, support the independent artists, and experience the collective effort that makes this event a resounding success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Beaufort International Film Festival 2026
- When will the 20th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival take place?
- The 20th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival will take place from February 17 to February 22, 2026.
- Where will the film screenings be held?
- Screenings will be held at the University of South Carolina Beaufort, Center for the Arts, in Downtown Beaufort.
- How many films and screenplays will be featured?
- The festival will feature a lineup of 54 films and 5 screenplays, selected from over 500 submissions from 56 countries.
- Who will receive the Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award?
- Acclaimed actor, writer, and director Grainger Hines will receive the prestigious Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award.
- What other events are planned for the opening ceremony?
- The Opening Ceremony on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, will be followed by a one-woman Off-Broadway play, “Bette Davis Ain’t For Sissies,” performed by Jessica Sherr.
Key Features of the 20th Annual Beaufort International Film Festival
| Feature | Details |
| Dates | February 17 – 22, 2026 |
| Location | Beaufort, SC (University of South Carolina Beaufort, Center for the Arts) |
| Number of Films & Screenplays | 54 films, 5 screenplays |
| Submissions Received | Over 500 from 56 countries |
| Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient | Grainger Hines (Pat Conroy Lifetime Achievement Award) |
| Opening Ceremony Event | “Bette Davis Ain’t For Sissies” one-woman Off-Broadway play by Jessica Sherr |
| Mission | To enliven the community by fostering an appreciation for the art of filmmaking |
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Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
