Atlanta Horror Film Festival Submissions

All submissions must go through FilmFreeway. 

We accept shorts and features in all genres of horror, including thriller, dark sci-fi, supernatural, experimental, psychological horror and more.

Shorts are under 40 minutes. Features are over 40 minutes.

Atlanta HorrorFest 2027 Deadlines

October 31, 2026 - Opening Date 

November 30, 2026 - Early Bird Deadline #1

December 31, 2026 - Early Bird Deadline #2 

January 31, 2027 - Early Bird Deadline #3 

February 28, 2027 - Regular Deadline #1 

March 31, 2027 - Regular Deadline #2 

April 30, 2027 - Regular Deadline #3 

May 31, 2027 - Late Deadline #1 

June 30, 2027 - Late Deadline #2 

July 23, 2027 - Late Deadline #3 

August 23, 2027 - Final Deadline 

September 1, 2027 - Notification Date (or beffore)

October 7-10, 2027 - Festival Dates

Categories

Feature Film  

Made in Georgia Shorts & Features  

Horror Short  

Thriller Short 

Horror Comedy Short  

Slasher Short  

Sci-Fi Short  

Paranormal Short  

Psychological Horror Short  

Zombie Short  

Monster Short  

Dark Drama Short  

Supernatural Short  

Gore Short  

Body Horror Short  

Tech Horror Short  

Queer Horror Short  

Found Footage Short  

Animated Short  

Experimental Short  

Music Video Short  

Other Short  

Micro Horror Short 

Entry fees are listed on FilmFreeway

 Films that have premiered elsewhere or are online are still eligible for consideration.

Georgia-based filmmakers and films shot in Georgia are considered for Best Local Film. 

Filmmakers will be notified via FilmFreeway. Timely responses are appreciated.Screening files and materials must be submitted at least two weeks before the festival.  We do not pay rental fees for submitted work that is programmed.

Only festival alumni are eligible for entry fee waivers. Contact us about waivers only if you are an alumni with a new project you would like to enter. Please mention you are an alumni in your subject line.

Winners in each category will receive a custom trophy to mark their achievement.

Best Feature Film
Presented to the standout feature-length horror film, recognized for storytelling, craft, and overall impact.

Best Short Film
Awarded to a short horror film that shows originality, tension, and the ability to scare, disturb, or surprise in a compact format.

Best Director – Feature
Recognizes outstanding direction in a feature film, with special attention to pacing, mood, and vision.

Best Director – Short
Recognizes outstanding direction in a short film, highlighting creativity, atmosphere, and storytelling within a limited runtime.

Best Local Feature
Celebrates a Georgia-made feature film or filmmaker, showcasing local talent and creativity.

Best Local Short
Celebrates a Georgia-made short film or filmmaker, honoring the strength of the local horror community.

Best Blood & Gore
Recognizes outstanding use of practical or digital effects to deliver unforgettable moments of carnage, horror makeup, and gruesome visuals that embody the spirit of horror.

Twisted Vision Award
Given to the film with a dark, unsettling, and wildly original idea that pushes horror into bold new territory.

Nightmare Fuel Award
For the film that gets under your skin and lingers long after the credits roll.

Best Horror Comedy
Presented to a film that masterfully blends horror and humor, delivering scares and laughs in equal measure.

Breakout Filmmaker
Recognizes an emerging filmmaker whose vision, creativity, and execution mark them as a rising force in horror.

Audience Choice - Feature
Chosen by festival audiences, this award highlights the feature film that connected most strongly with viewers.

Audience Choice - Short
Chosen by festival audiences, this award highlights the short film that connected most strongly with viewers.

Jury Award - Feature
Special recognition from the festival jury for a feature film that demonstrates exceptional quality or innovation.

Jury Award - Short
Special recognition from the festival jury for a short film that demonstrates exceptional quality or innovation.

Feel free to email us if you would like confirmation of entry.