The Second Annual Pottsville Film Festival will return to downtown Pottsville from May 29–31, 2026, offering a weekend dedicated to independent film, creativity, and community engagement.
Presented by the Majestic Theater and supported by returning Title Sponsor Explore Schuylkill, organizers say this year’s festival will expand on the success of its inaugural event while placing a stronger emphasis on showcasing Pottsville’s downtown businesses, restaurants, and attractions.
“This festival is about more than screenings,” said Al Miscannon, chair of the Pottsville Film Festival Committee. “It’s about creating energy in our downtown, driving visitors to our restaurants and shops, and positioning Pottsville as a destination for arts and culture.”
Miscannon said organizers are intentionally broadening the festival experience so local businesses play a central role in the weekend’s activities.
“We are intentionally expanding the experience so that our local businesses are as much a part of the weekend as the films themselves,” he said. “We’re also incredibly grateful to Explore Schuylkill for once again serving as our Title Sponsor and helping us grow the festival’s regional reach.”
The 2026 festival has already received more than 100 film submissions through FilmFreeway, signaling growing interest within the independent film community. Organizers expect filmmakers and film enthusiasts from across the country to attend the three-day event.
A major highlight of the festival will be a special appearance by Richard Kline, best known for his role as Larry Dallas on the classic television comedy Three’s Company. Kline will attend the festival throughout the weekend, taking part in multiple events including an educational workshop, audience Q&A session, and meet-and-greet opportunities with festival attendees.
Local talent is also playing a significant role in shaping this year’s event. Joe Whelski, an actor, director, and filmmaker originally from Pottsville who is now based in New York, has been instrumental in helping facilitate the festival. Organizers say Whelski has helped strengthen industry connections, enhance programming quality, and elevate the festival’s profile among independent filmmakers.
Festival organizers say the weekend will include a variety of activities designed to celebrate film while also encouraging visitors to explore the city.
Planned events include:
- Curated independent film screenings
- Interactive workshops and filmmaker discussions
- A red carpet event featuring Richard Kline
- Networking opportunities for creatives and industry professionals
- Coordinated promotions highlighting downtown dining, retail and entertainment venues
Organizers hope the festival will serve as both an arts event and an economic boost for downtown businesses by encouraging attendees to visit local establishments between screenings and events.
“This is about showcasing everything our city has to offer,” Miscannon said. “Film is the anchor — but the heart of this weekend is downtown Pottsville.”
A full schedule of screenings, film blocks, and ticket information is expected to be released in the coming weeks.
For updates and announcements, follow the Pottsville Film Festival on social media or visit its page on FilmFreeway.