The next Cookies & Comedy Film Festival returns to the Harris Theater in downtown Pittsburgh on Saturday, March 13, 2027. Film submissions open Monday, June 1, 2026.
Our 2026 festival packed the house with over 40 comedy films from around the world, live comedy performances, filmmaker Q&As, and of course - cookies. Here's what to expect:
What to Expect at Our Festival
Live Performance
Standup comedy and improvised music woven into each film block
Filmmaker Q&A
Engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers
Cookie Table
Indulging in homemade cookies throughout the event
Festival Community
Connect with fellow film enthusiasts
New for 2027
An Accessible Block for Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing Audiences
![An animated night scene of a glowing UFO above the Pittsburgh skyline, with an open caption reading '[spaceship zooming]' across the bottom of the frame](/assets/accessibility/open-captions-example.webp)
For the first time, one of our film blocks will be fully accessible to our Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests. Every short film will screen with open captions, and Dan Randolph will be on stage as our ASL interpreter throughout the live comedy and filmmaker Q&A.
Comedians Darin DiNapoli and Mary Warwick are shaping their sets around the block, with planning help from Heather Gray.
Upcoming Timeline
Film Submissions
June 1 - December 31, 2026
Schedule Announcement
January 14, 2027
Festival Day
Saturday, March 13, 2027
What Our Filmmakers Say
"Films were screened in a wonderful venue in the middle of Pittsburgh with a lively and large crowd. The communication was among the best I have experienced, and Q&As followed every block with plenty of time for networking."
"From start to finish, the communication with this festival was top-notch. Scott provided personalized care and attention in his outreach, and I'm very proud that a festival of this quality has become established in Pittsburgh."
