The Eighth Annual Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival returns May 1-4 with four unforgettable days of groundbreaking cinema, live music and parties in the historic Victorian town of Jim Thorpe.

This year’s festival will feature 10 first-run feature films and 80 short films from across the globe — plus live performances, surprise guests, filmmaker Q&As and immersive art experiences.

For marquee features, audiences will experience three 2025 SXSW world premieres, including a Special Jury Award winner. All three directors will travel from Los Angeles to present their films in person.

For 2025, JTIFF’s theme “Jim Thorpe Loves Philly,” celebrates Pennsylvania’s largest city with a curated spotlight on the raw talent and cultural richness of the Greater Philadelphia region alongside feature films of national significance.

This year’s program includes new work from emerging and established filmmakers whose voices are reshaping the indie landscape.

All events will be held at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, located at 14 West Broadway in downtown Jim Thorpe.

For tickets, festival passes, film descriptions, full schedule, lodging, and more, visit jimthorpeindiefilmfest.com.