The Lithgow Halloween Smartphone Film Competition returns in 2026, celebrating creativity, storytelling and spooky fun as part of the Lithgow Halloween Festival weekend.

Filmmakers of all ages and experience levels are invited to create a suspenseful horror short film of up to 10 minutes, filmed entirely on a smartphone or tablet. Entries must be suitable for a general audience (G-rated) and are free to submit.

Presented in partnership with Lithgow City Council and SF3 (SmartFone Flick Fest), Australia's international smartphone film festival, the competition welcomes entries from across Australia and around the world.

Films will compete for awards including:

• Most Creative

• Best Performance

• Best Youth Film

• People's Choice

In the lead up to the festival, three free filmmaking workshops will be offered for young people across the Seven Valleys, providing aspiring filmmakers with the skills and confidence to bring their ideas to life.

Shortlisted films will be screened at a special gala event during the 2026 Lithgow Halloween Festival on Friday 30 October at 7.00pm at the historic Lithgow Cinema, 166 Main Street, Lithgow. Winners will be announced on the night, with fantastic prizes up for grabs.

This free screening event is one of the highlights of the festival weekend and offers audiences the chance to experience a unique collection of spooky, creative and locally inspired short films on the big screen.