Deadhead Productions has announced the inaugural Deadhead Horror Film Festival, set to take place on November 1, 2025, at the historic Alban Theater in St. Albans, West Virginia. Timed to coincide with the city’s popular “Crawl-O-Ween” event, the festival aims to bring together horror fans and filmmakers for a day of screenings, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

Created to support, educate, and inspire independent filmmakers, the festival will feature interactive vendor spaces, live special effects demonstrations, and a showcase of award-winning short films. Awards will be presented in categories including Best Narrative Horror Short, Best Practical Effects, and the honorary Women in Film Award, which highlights productions emphasizing women’s contributions to the film industry.

The evening will open with the premiere of Bound, a short film directed by Festival Director Carah Chafin. Following the premiere, selected award-winning short films will be screened. The Deadhead team has partnered with Die, Rise, Kill, LLC to bring the event to life.

Short film submissions are now open via FilmFreeway and will close on August 24, 2025. Independent filmmakers are encouraged to submit their work for a chance to be featured at the event. More information can be found at https://filmfreeway.com/DeadheadHorrorfilmFest.

Founded in 2018, Deadhead Productions is committed to producing horror and experimental films that explore the human condition through practical effects. The company places a strong emphasis on uplifting independent creatives, particularly women entering the film industry.