Tropfest 2026: Sydney’s Iconic Short Film Festival Returns to Centennial Park

Tropfest Comeback Brings Outdoor Screenings, Masterclasses & $100K Prize Fund

Sydney film lovers, mark your calendars. After six years away, Tropfest — the world’s largest short film festival — is making its long-awaited return.

The festival will light up Centennial Park on Sunday, 22 February 2026, with thousands of people expected to gather for a free night of stories under the stars. Submissions open on 1 December this year, giving filmmakers just over a month to create their entries. As always, there’s a twist: films must run seven minutes or less and include the 2026 Tropfest Signature Item — this time, an hourglass.

Festival founder John Polson, who launched Tropfest back in 1993 with a screening at a small Darlinghurst café, called the relaunch “a dream six years in the making.” Speaking at Centennial Park, he said, “Our number one priority is to give Australia’s most talented, emerging filmmakers a level playing field. Come February, grab your picnic blanket and take part in the Tropfest story once again.”

Tropfest 2026 is more than just one night

The 2026 edition promises to be bigger than ever. Alongside the main event, there will be several days of talks, workshops and masterclasses exploring every corner of filmmaking, from writing to production design. YouTube is on board as a key partner, livestreaming the festival around the world and offering free training programs for aspiring creators.

Filmmakers also have serious incentives. Thanks to the new CommBank-Tropfest Emerging Filmmakers Fund, the top three films will share $100,000 in prize money, with first place taking home $50,000.

A lasting legacy

For over 30 years, Tropfest has been a launchpad for Australian talent, with alumni including Rebel Wilson, Joel and Nash Edgerton, Mia Wasikowska and Sam Worthington. In the past, live audiences of more than 100,000 have packed Sydney parks, while millions more tuned in across the globe.

To build excitement ahead of February, Tropfest will host a two-week “Trop ‘til You Drop” marathon on its YouTube channel, streaming classic finalists and hidden gems around the clock from 5 September.

How to be part of it

Entries open 1 December and close 7 January, with submissions accepted exclusively via YouTube. For everyone else, the best way to join in is simple: save the date, bring a picnic, and be part of Sydney’s biggest outdoor film night when Tropfest finally returns.