Austin, TX — Love a good scare? Austin is getting three days of horror movies, supernatural thrillers and behind-the-scenes filmmaking experiences just in time for Halloween.

The Ethereal Horror Fest returns to downtown Austin for its seventh year, taking over Violet Crown Cinema from October 16–18.

The festival celebrates independent horror filmmaking, bringing together filmmakers, actors and horror fans for screenings, special guests, live competitions and discussions about the art of making scary movies.

More than just scary movies

This year’s festival features independent feature films and shorts from Texas, across the country and around the world.

The lineup includes psychological thrillers, supernatural mysteries, dark comedies and experimental films.

Among the featured movies:

Marrow: A psychological thriller starring Jessica Dawn Willis, Danielle Harris and Michael Ironside. Horror actress Danielle Harris is expected to attend the opening-night screening and participate in a live Q&A.

Hollow Lake: A horror film following newlyweds whose secluded lakeside getaway takes a terrifying turn.

-The Ritual of Huasao: A supernatural thriller exploring the aftermath of a spiritual cleansing in Peru.

Filmmakers compete to pitch their scariest ideas

One of this year’s new attractions is a live competition called “Pitch or Perish!”

Six filmmakers will take the stage to pitch their original horror movie ideas to a panel of industry judges and guests.

The competition takes place Friday, October 16, beginning at 7 p.m.

The festival also includes filmmaker Q&A sessions, industry discussions, networking opportunities and a conference exploring the creative and business sides of independent filmmaking.

Celebrating diverse voices in horror

The festival will also feature Pride of Terror, a showcase highlighting LGBTQ+ filmmakers and storytelling within the horror genre.

Other programming includes a screenplay competition, a live table reading of selected work and an awards ceremony on Sunday, October 18.

Organizers say the goal is to give independent filmmakers opportunities to connect with audiences, share their work and explore new approaches to storytelling.

How to attend

What: Ethereal Horror Fest 2026

When: Friday, October 16, through Sunday, October 18

Where: Violet Crown Cinema, 434 W. Second St., Austin

Tickets: Day passes are listed at $25, with weekend passes at $40. Check the ticketing page for current pricing and availability.

For tickets, film information and festival updates, visit: https://www.etherealhorrorfest.com/

You can also find [tickets and festival details here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ethereal-horror-fest-invasion-tickets-2003141110986