Sideworld is an art collective that hosts touring DIY events to showcase underground films and artworks, with the goal of connecting artists in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and NYC to create a tight-knit film scene throughout the East Coast, USA. We aim to create free, open, easily accessible, social events and spaces where creative people can meet and connect, and where attendees can enjoy films and art made by locals. We are against gatekeeping, censorship, and pretentiousness.
Image captured from Sideworld Art Party in December 2025.
| Q: When is the deadline to submit a film for the next video festival? |
A: The deadline for our next video festival is Sunday January 11, 2026 at 11:59 PM. However, we take rolling submissions, meaning you can submit a film whenever you'd like, for any of our upcoming video festivals (Baltimore, Philly, or NYC). If we can't accept your film in one festival, we might email you and ask if it's okay to show it at a different upcoming festival. |
| Q: When will we find out what the exact dates and venues are for each festival? |
A: Next event is JANUARY 15, 2026 at Lifeworld (563 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn NY) in NYC! For shows in other cities, we're currently waiting on the venues to finalize the dates. As soon as we know, we will email everyone who's submitted a film and confirm the dates and locations. |
| Q: Why would I submit to a video festival that's outside of my city if I could attend the one that's local to me? |
A: The goal of this festival is to create a connected film scene between Baltimore, Philly, and NYC. Connecting and collaborating with artists in other cities is a great way to get your film shown more nationally and to different audiences. Because of this, we prioritize accepting filmmmakers who are willing to travel to the festivals we hold in other cities. |
| Q: How long can my film be? |
A: Films must be under 20 minutes. |
| Q: Who is allowed to submit? |
A: Filmmakers based in the Baltimore, Philadelphia, and NYC areas (and anywhere in-between). |
| Q: Am I allowed to submit to the upcoming art shows? |
A: Yes! The submission form is linked on our "Submit" page. The art show will take place in Baltimore in April. Venue and date TBD. |
| Q: Are any types of films more likely to be accepted? |
A: We prioritize filmmakers who can attend, as well as entertaining, interesting, moving films. Shorter films are more likely to be accepted due to time constraints. |
| Q: How does the contest work? |
A: After the last film, everyone at the festival will vote for their favorite film. The film with the highest number of votes wins a prize. |
| Q: Is there a Q & A? How does it work? |
A: After the last film, all filmmakers will come up to the front and answer a question or two about their film. Participation is not required. |
| Q: When will I hear if my film is accepted for the video festival in NYC? |
A: January 12th -13th. |
| Q: Will there be food and/or drinks? |
A: Yes, for sale. |
| Q: Does my film have to be made in the past year? |
A: No, it doesn't matter how long ago you made the film. |
| Q: How many films can I submit? |
A: As many as you want. |
| Q: Are there any accessibility barriers at the venues I should keep in mind? |
A: Philadelphia: Our venue in Philly (Philadelphia Brewing Co.) has one flight of stairs with a slightly narrow staircase, and no elevator. There are also two steps to enter the lower part of the venue, but the video festival is held upstairs.
Baltimore: Venue location is TBD.
NYC: Lifeworld has one flight of stairs, and wide openings throughout the space. There are chairs set up in the theater area of the space, with ample space for wheelchairs. |
For business or collaboration inquiries, or just to chat, please contact us.
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