Backyard Film Bash
Spy Hop’s first annual Backyard Film Bash is happening this September. GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
This community celebration will feature a national short film competition, live music performances, media arts showcases, art vendors, food, and more.
event details
Date
September 19, '26
Location
Smith's Ballpark
Duration
3–10pm
Price
free
About the Backyard Film Bash
Join us for Spy Hop’s first Backyard Film Bash at the Smith Ballpark. This family friendly event is sure to become a mainstay in our community.
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
- 🎶 Live music
- 🌮 Food trucks and picnic areas on the field
- 🍻 Beer garden
- 🎤 Activity areas for kids and adults
- 📽️ Evening concludes with the screening of the film competition!
NATIONAL SHORT FILM COMPETITION
Open to filmmakers nationwide, with a special focus on new voices and early-career storytellers, this film competition will showcase 12 finalists. Over $20,000 will be awarded for the best films, with the first place film director taking home a $10,000 prize. Film submissions must be under seven minutes in length and must incorporate the signature item to be eligible for selection.
For the inaugural year, the signature item is SALT. 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.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT BFB
Want to help build this event that celebrates the creative community and elevates youth voice? Become a partner or sponsor today. To learn more about how you and your organization can get involved contact robert@spyhop.org
Looking for a way to support our mission? Volunteers will play an essential role in helping to create an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re greeting guests, helping filmmakers, supporting activities, or assisting behind the scenes, you’ll play a vital role in launching this new Utah tradition.