Join us April 17 and 18, 2026, at the historic Fargo Theater.

Two days of stories that belong on the land they come from.

The experience

What to Expect.

NPIFF is more than a series of screenings (it is a community gathering where the world of cinema meets the warmth of the Northern Plains). Our programming is designed to bridge the gap between neighbors and connect isolated creators with their community.

Curated Screenings:

See narrative features, documentaries, and short films specifically selected for this inaugural festival.

Filmmaker Q&As:

Every screening turns into a conversation (giving you the chance to talk directly to the creators).

Professional Development

We host discussions focused on career sustainability and building professional connections within Native film communities.

Evolving Traditions:

Experience the evolution of storytelling from ledger art and winter counts to the big screen.

The schedule

All events take place at the Fargo Theatre in Downtown Fargo, ND.

17 Apr

Morning: Documentaries & Short Form

Filmmaking workshops and Q&A sessions focused on community and responsibility.
10:00 AM – 12:30 PM
17 Apr

Early Afternoon: Documentaries & Short Form

Doors open for registration and press photos.
12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
17 Apr

Mid-Afternoon: Documentaries & Short Form

Second block of documentaries and short films followed by a filmmaker dinner break.
3:30 PM – 7:00 PM
17 Apr

Evening: Documentaries & Short Form

Opening welcome and feature film screening with a filmmaker Q&A.
7:00 PM – 9:30 PM
18 Apr

Morning: Features, Panels & Closing

Filmmaking workshops focused on Indigenous futurism and community responsibility.
10:00 AM – 1:30 PM
18 Apr

Early Afternoon: Features, Panels & Closing

Feature film screening followed by a moderated Q&A.
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
18 Apr

Late Afternoon: Features, Panels & Closing

Emerging filmmakers’ spotlight and short film block.
4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
18 Apr

Closing Night: Features, Panels & Closing

Feature film screening, Q&A with Gary Farmer, and closing reception.
7:00 PM – 11:30 PM

The Film Section (Coming Soon)

We are currently in our inaugural submission period (open from January 1 to March 1, 2026). Our jury of Indigenous artists and cultural workers is looking for films that reflect an authentic voice and contemporary relevance.

The full list of selected films and the detailed screening schedule will be announced in March 2026.

Mark Your Calendar

April 17 and 18 at the Fargo Theater.

Grab Your Seat

Tickets will be available following the film section announcement

Witness the Future

Come see why Fargo is a national hub for indigenous creative excellence.