New York Film Festival 2026: dates, tickets and what international residents should know

The 64th New York Film Festival runs from 25 September to 12 October 2026, with international cinema, talks and screenings across New York City. Film at Lincoln Center is the main hub, while additional screenings take place at venues including BAM, the Museum of the Moving Image, Staten Island and the Bronx.

For international residents looking for a major cultural event without sorting through the entire programme, the useful starting point is simple: standard general-public tickets are currently US$35 for Main Slate and Spotlight screenings and US$22 for Currents, Revivals and Talks. Some talks and events are free, and selected screenings may offer US$15 rush tickets.

When is the New York Film Festival 2026?

The festival opens on Friday 25 September and runs until Monday 12 October 2026. Film at Lincoln Center’s official festival page also lists screenings across New York City from 2 to 9 October, giving people outside Manhattan more ways to take part.

The official NYFF64 festival page is the best place to check the live schedule, newly available tickets and late programme changes.

How much do NYFF64 tickets cost?

Film at Lincoln Center currently lists these standard general-public prices:

• Main Slate and Spotlight: US$35
• Currents, Revivals and Talks: US$22
• Opening Night at Alice Tully Hall: US$130
• Centerpiece, Closing Night and selected gala events at Alice Tully Hall: US$90
• Selected rush tickets: US$15, when announced

Film at Lincoln Center says all pricing is subject to change and tickets depend on availability. Its official ticket information page should therefore be checked before making plans.

Are there free events?

Yes. Tickets for designated free talks and events are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis from the relevant box office beginning one hour before the event. That makes the festival accessible even if you do not want to commit to a full evening screening.

Some paid screenings that sell out in advance may also operate standby lines. Film at Lincoln Center advises that regular ticket prices apply to standby tickets.

Where does the festival take place?

The festival is centred on Film at Lincoln Center, including Alice Tully Hall, the Walter Reade Theater and the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center around West 65th Street. The 2026 programme also extends to partner venues across the city.

That citywide element is especially useful for international residents who want a cultural night out closer to home rather than travelling to Lincoln Center for every event.

What should you book first?

If you have a particular film or director in mind, book that first rather than building a large schedule and waiting. The official site is already highlighting screenings with tickets still available, and availability can change quickly as the opening weekend approaches.

For people who mainly want the festival atmosphere, the lower-cost Currents, Revivals and Talks programme can be a better-value entry point. Free talks are also worth checking if you are interested in directors, film criticism or international cinema rather than a specific premiere.

Is the festival accessible?

Film at Lincoln Center states that its theatres are accessible to guests using wheelchairs and asks people with specific seating needs to buy the relevant screening ticket and then contact the venue with their order number and requirements. Accessibility arrangements at partner venues should be checked directly with those venues.

A practical tip for newcomers to New York

Do not assume a screening marked sold out is necessarily your final chance. The festival may release more tickets, operate standby lines or announce selected US$15 rush tickets. Check the official site again closer to the screening rather than relying on an old availability screenshot or third-party listing.

For more practical culture and newcomer coverage, browse Babylon’s United States section.

Last verified: 23 September 2026. Ticket prices, availability and appearances can change; check Film at Lincoln Center before travelling.