Canada’s oldest film festival begins its 79th running this week in Yorkton

The Yorkton Film Festival is entering its 79th year with over 300 films being screened over three days.

One of the oldest film festivals in Canada has opened its doors for the 79th year in Yorkton, Sask.

Randy Goulden, executive director for the Yorkton Film Festival (YFF), said over 3,000 guests are expected to attend the five-day event.

On Thursday, Goulden was busy preparing for the festivities by displaying information booklets, along with decorations worthy of a nearly 80-year-old festival.

“We have an incredible lineup of speakers and panels, and that is why the filmmakers are coming here from all across Canada,” she told CTV News at the Gallagher Centre.

• Download the CTV News app to get breaking news alerts sent to your device

About 200 filmmakers are expected to attend the festival.

“We expect probably another 3,000 people, along with the filmmakers that are here,” Goulden said. “A good crowd again here in Yorkton.”

Throughout the event, festival screenings and programs are scheduled to ensure filmmakers and guests are making the most of their experience.

“We have over 300 films to view this year, and we’re having screenings for the next three days, starting with our opening night screening [on Thursday],” Goulden said.

Every year brings a twist to the program, and 2026 is no exception, she added.

“This year we now have categories for feature-length films,” she said. “You can see feature-length [films] along with the shorts that we always have.”

Beyond screenings, the festival also offers valuable networking opportunities for film industry professionals.

“I’ve seen many of the deals and agreements signed for series and documentaries, and that happens right here in Yorkton,” Goulden said.

In partnership with the Yorkton Lions Club a signature event in the community - Lobsterfest - will take place Friday night at Yorkton Wildlife Federation.

The official program will conclude with the Golden Sheaf Awards Gala on Saturday.