Washington, DC’s documentary film scene is about to take center stage once again.
DC/DOX, one of the nation’s fastest-growing documentary film festivals, returns to the District from June 11 through June 14, bringing together filmmakers, journalists, industry leaders, and film lovers for four days of screenings and discussions.
The festival’s fourth edition features an ambitious lineup of documentaries from around the world, along with special events designed to spark conversation about some of today’s most important issues.
With world premieres, U.S. premieres, filmmaker appearances, and post-screening discussions, DC/DOX has quickly established itself as a major stop on the documentary festival circuit.
For movie fans looking for a unique cultural event in the nation’s capital this week, the festival offers plenty to explore.
What is DC/DOX?
DC/DOX is an international documentary film festival dedicated to showcasing bold nonfiction storytelling and connecting audiences with filmmakers whose work explores the world’s most pressing issues and compelling personal stories.
Founded in 2022 and now entering its fourth edition, the festival has become a major gathering point for documentary filmmakers and audiences alike.
This year’s festival features 113 films, including 64 feature documentaries and 49 short films from 32 countries.
The lineup includes nine world premieres, three North American premieres, five U.S. premieres, and numerous East Coast and Washington, DC premieres.
In addition to screenings, DC/DOX hosts the Reality Check Forum, which includes panels, workshops, masterclasses, live podcasts, and conversations focused on the future of documentary filmmaking and journalism.
When and where is the festival taking place?
The 2026 edition of DC/DOX runs from Thursday, June 11th, to Sunday, June 14th, right here in the District.
Festival events and screenings are spread across several venues in downtown DC, with the festival centered around the Penn Quarter and Gallery Place neighborhoods.
Participating venues include Eaton Cinema, Regal Gallery Place, the Bloomberg Center at Johns Hopkins University, the National Gallery of Art’s East Building Auditorium, Planet Word, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company, and additional locations throughout downtown.
Every screening is followed by filmmaker Q&As and audience discussions, allowing attendees to engage directly with the creators behind the films.
How much does it cost, and is any of it free?
Individual screening tickets are available, but festival passes offer access to a broader selection of events and films.
- Individual tickets for singular screenings are around $17 per person
- All-access Pass: $225 per person
Visitors should review the official festival schedule to see which programs require tickets and which are open to the public.
For documentary enthusiasts, the combination of world premieres, filmmaker access, industry panels, and thought-provoking discussions makes DC/DOX one of the most unique cultural events happening in Washington this week.
With more than 100 films on the schedule, attendees can build an experience that ranges from a single screening to a full four-day immersion in nonfiction storytelling.
