When: June 3–8, 2025 (in-person) & June 9–15, 2025 (online)
Where: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
The imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival returns in 2025 to celebrate its 25th anniversary with a dynamic showcase of film, video, digital, and interactive works by Indigenous creators from around the globe. Taking place in Toronto from June 3–8, followed by an online festival from June 9–15, this milestone event highlights the power of storytelling across diverse media platforms. For the latest festival news and updates, visit the official imagineNATIVE website.
About the Festival
As the world’s largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, imagineNATIVE has been a cornerstone for Indigenous filmmakers and media artists since its inception. The 25th anniversary festival in 2025 marks a significant evolution, permanently moving the event to June to align with Indigenous Peoples’ Month, thereby amplifying its cultural resonance . This year’s theme centers on seedkeeping and the transmission of knowledge to future generations, reflecting the festival’s commitment to cultural preservation and innovation .
Attendees can expect a rich program featuring films, digital media, and interactive art that challenge conventions and celebrate Indigenous narratives. The festival’s dedication to showcasing works in Indigenous languages, alongside English, underscores its role in language revitalization and cultural sovereignty .
Early Bird Tickets and Memberships
Early Bird Ticket Packages and Festival Passes are now available for both the in-person and online events. Becoming an imagineNATIVE Member by April 15, 2025, offers benefits such as early access to tickets, exclusive industry events, discounts on festival merchandise, and more . Note that memberships processed after this date will apply to the 2026 festival, in accordance with the festival’s policy to ensure optimal preparation and experience for all attendees.
Programming Highlights
The 2025 festival boasts an impressive lineup of works from 55 Indigenous Nations across 16 countries . Key highlights include:
- Opening Night Film: Endless Cookie, an animated documentary by Seth and Peter Scriver, exploring their shared heritage and familial bonds.
- Closing Night Film: Seeds, a horror-comedy directed by Kaniehtiio Horn, screening outdoors at Fort York National Historic Site.
- Digital and Interactive Works: 14 innovative pieces that blend technology with storytelling, available both in-person and online .
- Audio Works: 17 compelling audio pieces that delve into diverse narratives and soundscapes.
These selections exemplify the festival’s dedication to presenting cutting-edge media arts that resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring traditional roots.
Festival Date Change and Policy
In a strategic move to enhance its impact, imagineNATIVE has shifted its annual festival from the fall to June, aligning with Indigenous Peoples’ Month. This change, announced after the postponement of the 2024 edition, allows for greater engagement and visibility of Indigenous media arts . The festival’s policies, including its Year-Round Artistic Policy, emphasize a commitment to Indigenous narrative sovereignty and the ethical presentation of media works.
FAQ
Who can attend the imagineNATIVE Festival?
The festival is open to all audiences interested in experiencing original voices and creative perspectives from Indigenous artists.
Are films only in English?
No. While many works include English subtitles or dialogue, the festival also celebrates Indigenous languages, supporting language preservation and cultural expression.
What kinds of media are featured?
The festival showcases a diverse range of media, including feature films, short narratives, VR experiences, interactive installations, digital artwork, and audio pieces.
How can I stay updated?
For the latest news and updates, visit the official imagineNATIVE website and follow their social media channels.
Join the imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival in celebrating 25 years of groundbreaking Indigenous storytelling and media arts. Whether attending in Toronto or participating online, this festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with powerful narratives that shape our understanding of culture, identity, and creativity. Experience the excellence of boundary-pushing artists premiering new video works that challenge, inspire, and redefine the future of film and digital media. Let this year’s milestone event spark your imagination and connect you to a world of bold, original voices. For the latest festival news, visit imagineNATIVE.
