Ethereal Horror Fest - Invasion

Experience Horror Beyond the Ordinary!

Ethereal Horror Fest returns to Austin for its seventh year, bringing three days of independent horror cinema, special guests, filmmaker Q&As, industry events, and unforgettable storytelling to Violet Crown Cinema in downtown Austin.

More than just a film festival, Ethereal Horror Fest celebrates fearless creativity, diverse voices, and filmmakers who dare to explore the darker side of storytelling.

From psychological thrillers and supernatural mysteries to dark comedy, experimental cinema, and traditional horror, we believe horror is more than blood, gore, and jump scares. It's a genre that explores our deepest fears, human experiences, and the unknown.

Feature Films & Independent Cinema

Our 2026 lineup showcases independent feature films and shorts from Texas, across the country, and around the world.

MARROW — Directed by Mitch McLeod and starring Jessica Dawn Willis, Danielle Harris, and Michael Ironside. Our opening-night presentation features a special appearance by horror icon Danielle Harris, followed by a live Q&A.

HOLLOW LAKE — Troy Escamilla's queer horror feature follows newlyweds whose secluded lakeside getaway becomes a bloody nightmare.

THE RITUAL OF HUASAO — Isaac Berrocal's atmospheric feature debut explores the terrifying aftermath of a spiritual cleansing in Peru.

Alongside our features, discover an exciting collection of short films spanning every corner of the horror genre.

Live Pitch Competition — Pitch or Perish!

New for 2026! Six filmmakers take the stage to pitch original horror projects before a panel of industry judges and guests.

Experience the excitement of discovering new ideas and the next generation of horror filmmakers in this live opening-night competition.

Special Guests, Q&As & Industry Events

Meet filmmakers, actors, writers, and industry professionals throughout the weekend.

Our programming includes filmmaker Q&As, engaging industry discussions, networking opportunities, and a conference exploring the creative and business sides of independent filmmaking.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker or a passionate film fan, you'll gain a unique behind-the-scenes perspective.

Pride of Terror

Our dedicated Pride of Terror showcase celebrates LGBTQ+ voices in horror, highlighting bold storytelling and perspectives that challenge genre conventions.

Inclusivity, diversity, and supporting underrepresented filmmakers remain central to our mission.

Screenplay Competition & Live Table Read

Horror starts with a great story! Our screenplay competition recognizes exceptional writers and original ideas.

Join us Sunday for a live screenplay table read, bringing the written word to life through performance.

Festival Awards

We close the weekend with our annual awards ceremony on Sunday, October 18, celebrating outstanding achievements in independent horror filmmaking.

Our commitment to filmmakers continues beyond the festival through initiatives such as Ethereal Resurrection, which offers additional screening opportunities for standout films.

More Than a Film Festival

As a nonprofit organization, Ethereal Horror Fest is dedicated to supporting independent filmmakers, encouraging creative collaboration, and making horror filmmaking more accessible.

Through free student submissions, educational programming, networking opportunities, and community engagement, we strive to nurture emerging talent and champion independent voices.

Join Us!

Dates: October 16–18, 2026
Location: Violet Crown Cinema, Downtown Austin
Featuring: Independent Features & Shorts, Special Guests, Live Q&As, Pitch Competition, Industry Conference, Pride of Terror, Screenplay Reading & Awards.

Whether you're a die-hard horror fan, an emerging filmmaker, or just looking for something different, there's a place for you at Ethereal Horror Fest.

Come for the horror. Stay for the stories.

Full festival schedule: https://www.etherealhorrorfest.com/film-schedule