Boulder Environmental Nature Outdoors Film Festival 2026: Nature and Outdoors Short Films Program

TICKETS
Finalists of short films Program curated from over 100 submissions to the festival in 2026 – An eclectic mix of environmental Advocacy, Wildlife conservation, and artistic expressions of nature and what it all means to us.
2026 SELECTIONS:
TALKING TO THE SUN
TALKING TO THE SUN is a short documentary of astronomical proportions joining Farmer Frank as he takes care of his small spot on Earth, making his own path from seed to harvest.
As he mentors people in his community who want to learn from his great experience and love for nature, Frank grows organic food and is an important part of our community!
Directed by Megan Sweeney | Runtime: 20 mins.
WILDERNESS
There is something about the wilderness that is both intangible and universally appreciated by the people who visit it, and this bond is what has inspired a group of dedicated volunteers to come together to help preserve the Indian Peaks Wilderness. From trail maintenance to outreach, discover the bountiful labour that is needed to preserve the magic of these spaces. Uncover the individual stories that have led each member to the wilderness, and why they are dedicated to protecting it. And through all of this, witness the love, passion, and community that the wilderness imparts.
Directed by Andy Ichiro Sameshima, Cade Birgfeld | Runtime: 14:06 mins.
PEST
The ways in which humans live alongside urban wildlife is explored through the eyes of those who work to save them and those whose job it is to eradicate them. Experts discuss wildlife management and the ways in which we can better coexist with the natural world.
Alexandra Faust is an independent filmmaker, with a background in environmental studies. She recently graduated from Colorado Film School
Directed by Alexandra S Faust | Runtime: 13:33 mins.
RIVER STORIES
Set along Colorado’s South St. Vrain Creek, River Stories explores the deep connections between rivers, restoration, and community resilience. Through the voices of scientists, land stewards, and local residents, the film follows a collaborative effort to restore a river shaped by wildfire, flooding, and climate change—revealing how healing waterways can also strengthen the relationships people have with the landscapes they call home.Set along Colorado’s South St. Vrain Creek, River Stories explores the deep connections between rivers, restoration, and community resilience. Through the voices of scientists, land stewards, and local residents, the film follows a collaborative effort to restore a river shaped by wildfire, flooding, and climate change—revealing how healing waterways can also strengthen the relationships people have with the landscapes they call home.