About Black Bear

“The Black Bear Film Festival is a cultural anchor for Milford and the entire region. It involves everyone from school children to seniors and supports our local economy. A true win-win-win!”

— Sean Strub, Former Mayor of Milford

Bears On A Mission To:

The Black Bear Film Festival is a non-profit organization dedicated to spreading joy and building community through film. We are based in Milford, Pennsylvania and aim to entertain, educate and inspire our region with great film events which include screenings, showcases and workshops.

As local and passionate black bears we strive to:

Find and feature exceptional independent films the public will enjoy.
Celebrate the art and craft of filmmaking with multiple events.
Build sound, mutually beneficial partnerships with local businesses.

Inspire students to become filmmakers and appreciators of film.
Enrich the culture and economy of our local community and region.

Bear Dens

Our History

The Black Bear Film Festival was started in Milford in 2000 by casting director, Jerry Beaver, with the help from locals residents, including Dave Chant of Davis R. Chant Realtors and Sean Strub, former mayor of Milford. The festival now attracts 3,000 people each year to our arts-driven community.
The Milford Theatre

The Historic Milford Theater, with its classic art deco stage, was built c.1910-1920 by Thomas Pitney. It became a central hub for the town’s cinematic culture. Originally built as a silent movie house and vaudeville venue, it has been revitalized and continues to host a variety of performances, including live music, plays, and classic film screenings as well as being the home of The Black Bear Film Festival.
Milford

Milford, Pennsylvannia has a rich film history dating back to the early 1900’s. Legendary filmmaker D.W. Griffith was enamored with the town’s scenic beauty and used it as a backdrop for several of his films along with Charlie Chaplin, Mary Pickford, and Lionel Barrymore.
Milford is an artistic and culturally rich town with music, art, dance, and writing festivals throughout the year. The Black Bear Film Festival is a cornerstone of the town’s arts driven spirit.