The wait is officially over for horror enthusiasts and thrill-seekers across Florida. Celebrating its 21st year, the FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival has revealed its official selections for the upcoming 2026 event. The iconic gathering takes place October 23-24 at Orlando’s modern Epic Theatres at Lee Vista. Known locally as the city’s best Halloween event, the festival highlights innovative, blood-curdling works from global independent filmmakers.
Record Submissions Yield Four Major World Premieres
Organizers processed a record-breaking number of submissions from talented horror writers and directors this year. The curated lineup features a relentless mix of psychological dread, classic slashers, paranormal nightmares, and creature features. Notably, the festival hosts four major world premieres, offering attendees an exclusive first look at anticipated genre titles on the big screen:
Feature Film Slate
-
High Moon at Blackwood – Directed by Jon Binkowski (USA) — World Premiere
-
The Doppelganger – Directed by Joseph O’Connor (USA) — World Premiere
-
The Snitch – Directed by Trystan Kaunda (Kazakhstan) — World Premiere
-
October 31st – Directed by Brian Krainson (USA) — World Premiere
-
The Missing Ones – Directed by Brendan Rudnicki (USA)
-
Gator Face – Directed by Michael Houston King (USA)
-
We’re So Dead – Directed by Ken Maclaughlin (USA)
-
Marrow – Directed by Mitch McLeod (USA)
International Short Film Slate
-
Ego – Directed by Sun Chen (China)
-
Not Just Me – Directed by Brendan Hennessy (Australia)
-
Cinch – Directed by Ally Musmeci (USA)
-
Day of the Dad – Directed by James III (USA)
-
That Damn Cat – Directed by David Hefner (USA)
-
The Candle – Directed by Ren Ariel Sano (USA)
-
Blindsided – Directed by P Patrick Hogan (USA)
-
Jingle Jangle – Directed by Sionne Elise (USA)
-
They’re Here – Directed by Rick Danford (USA)
-
Feathered Guilt – Directed by Madison Helmick (USA)
-
The Damned Thing – Directed by Estevan Valdes (USA)
-
Dead Roommate – Directed by CJ Maxwell (USA)
-
The Me in the TV – Directed by Gordon Phillips (Indonesia, USA)
Immersive Carnival Experience and Digital Midway Expansion
However, beyond screening terrifying films, the two-day event offers attendees an immersive carnival environment. Guests can join lively filmmaker Q&A sessions, walk the red carpet, and attend official opening- and closing-night parties. Also, scary and sexy clown cosplay is also encouraged under the watchful gaze of mascot FREAKO the Clown. Meanwhile, fans can access year-round horror news, exclusive content, and merchandise through the new FREAKO’s Cinema Circus digital platform.
Event Guidelines and Pass Details
Founded by filmmaker Robert Massetti, the gathering continues its mission of championing independent genre cinema. However, due to intense violence, gore, nudity, and harsh language, the festival strictly enforces an adults-only policy for guests 18 and older. All-access passes and individual screening tickets are currently available online. Genre fans can visit the official festival website at www.freakshowfilmfest.com to view the full schedule and secure tickets today.
