“If you're going to enjoy a horror film festival, there is no better way than Telluride's Horror Show.” — Playback
Maybe you’re familiar with the Telluride Film Festival, one of the most famous stops on the American festival circuit. But not to be overlooked is the smaller, yet prestigious festival dedicated exclusively to horror movies.
Every October, horror fans from across the country travel to Colorado for the Telluride Horror Show, the state’s first and longest-running horror film festival. Taking place October 10–12, 2025, this three-day celebration of genre filmmaking transforms the mountain town of Telluride into a hub for scary movies, filmmaker Q&As, and community events. If you’re a fan of horror, sci-fi, or dark fantasy, this is one of the best horror film festivals in 2025 to add to your calendar.
What is the Telluride Horror Show?
Since 2010, the Telluride Horror Show has been bringing new voices in horror to the screen alongside beloved classics. The festival showcases feature films, short films, and documentaries from around the world, giving audiences an early look at buzzworthy titles and international discoveries.
More than just screenings, the weekend includes author readings, live podcasts, and panel discussions with filmmakers. Attendees can take part in special events like the Creepy Campfire Tales told around a campfire (last year’s roster included Paul Tremblay, Stephen Graham Jones, and Grady Hendrix) or the late-night parties that spill out into downtown Telluride. It’s a chance to mingle with other horror fans, meet the creators behind the films, and take part in a community that celebrates everything spooky.
For many, attending the festival is not just about watching horror movies in Telluride—it’s about finding hidden gems, making new friends, and feeling part of a dedicated horror-loving audience.
Festival Venues
- Palm Theatre (587 seats) – The festival’s largest venue, located at Telluride High School, a short walk from downtown.
- Sheridan Opera House (230 seats) – Built in 1913, this historic venue is the heart of the festival. Look up and you’ll see gargoyles perched on the roof, a perfect fit for the weekend’s spooky vibe.
- The Blob (120 seats) – A black box theater at Telluride High School, perfect for intimate screenings where the audience is fully immersed.
- Horror Vault (60 seats) – Inside the Wilkinson Public Library, this space screens rare 16mm prints free of charge, making it a hidden gem for true cinephiles.
- Elks Lodge – Located in the historic Swede-Finn Hall, this venue hosts a mix of festival events and community gatherings.
Because all venues are close together, it’s easy to catch multiple films in a single day without worrying about long commutes—and the walk between theaters creates a fun, communal atmosphere.
Passes and Tickets
Passes for the Telluride Horror Show 2025 sell quickly, and they’re the best way to experience the full lineup:
- 3-Day Pass – $235 + fees
- 6-Pack – $117.50 + fees
The 3-Day Pass guarantees access to all regularly scheduled films and events, while the 6-Pack allows you to choose six programs throughout the weekend. Individual tickets are sometimes available at the door, but most screenings sell out in advance—if you’re serious about attending, securing a pass before October is strongly recommended.
Because the festival is intentionally intimate, seats are limited, and every screening feels special—you’re watching films in historic theaters, surrounded by people who love the genre just as much as you do.
Why Visit in October?
The Telluride Horror Show takes place at the peak of fall foliage season. Between screenings, festival-goers can enjoy crisp mountain air, golden aspen trees, and the charm of downtown Telluride. The surrounding San Juan Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop that feels tailor-made for a horror film setting, and many attendees take time to hike, ride the free gondola, or explore the shops and restaurants in town.
If you’re looking for things to do in Telluride in October, pairing a world-class horror film festival in Colorado with autumn in the Rockies is an unforgettable experience. Even if you aren’t a die-hard horror fan, the festival atmosphere combined with the seasonal beauty makes it a perfect getaway.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you’re a genre enthusiast or simply curious about unique Telluride events in October, the Telluride Horror Show delivers something special. The festival attracts audiences from across the U.S., so lodging and vacation rentals fill quickly—booking early is essential. Many visitors stay within walking distance of the theaters, while others choose nearby Mountain Village and use the gondola to get into Telluride each day.
If you’re planning your first trip, allow time beyond the screenings to enjoy the town itself. Grab a coffee before morning shows, take in the mountain views, or join fellow fans at one of the late-night events. The Telluride Horror Show is more than a weekend of scary movies… it’s a chance to immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind community set in one of the most beautiful places in Colorado.
