SALT LAKE CITY’S NEWEST COMMUNITY EVENT
Spy Hop’s first annual Backyard Film Bash is happening this September. Mark your calendars!
This community celebration will feature:
- National short film competition
- Live music performances
- Media arts showcase
- Art vendors, and
- Food
This event will have something for the whole family while showcasing the creativity of Utah’s youth. Don’t miss it!
NATIONAL SHORT FILM COMPETITION
Open to filmmakers nationwide, with a special focus on new voices and early-career storytellers, this film competition will showcase twelve finalists with prizes awarded in multiple categories including best film, best director, and best youth filmmaker. Film submissions must be under seven minutes in length and must incorporate the signature item to be eligible for selection.
SIGNATURE ITEM
For the inaugural year, filmmakers must interpret the theme SALT into their short film–whether visually, narratively, or symbolically. The prompt draws inspiration from Utah’s landscape and history, grounding the film competition in a sense of place while encouraging inventive approaches to storytelling.
SUBMIT YOUR FILM
Submissions are open until August 14, 2026 and films can be submitted through Film Freeway. For complete guidelines or to submit your film, visit Film Freeway.
BECOME A PARTNER
If you want to support this new community event, email robert@spyhop.org to learn more about how to get involved.
STAY INFORMED
Visit this page to learn more about the event or sign up for our email newsletter. In the meantime, make sure to save the date!
