Coupeville Creative District Revives 50-Hour Film Slam on Ebey's Prairie

Filmmakers across Whidbey Island will have the chance to capture cinematic magic in one of the island's most striking landscapes when the Coupeville Creative District brings back the 50-Hour Film Slam on Ebey's Prairie, April 10–12, 2026.

The Friends of Ebey's approached the newly established Coupeville Creative District about reviving the concept, and it was an easy "yes" for the committee, said Lisa Bernhardt, executive director of the Pacific Northwest Art School. The organization is required by the state to create opportunities for local artists, and the 50-Hour Film Slam was an easy fit.

The format keeps faith with what past participants remember. Individuals or teams of no more than six people will have 50 hours to produce a three-to-six-minute film using phones, cameras, or any device at their disposal, all within the reserve. Unlike earlier iterations, there is no required element tied specifically to the reserve, leaving the theme wide-open and the creative ceiling high. Participants can be of any age, provided a team leader is at least 18.

"The landscape is such a special and inspiring place, and it naturally lends itself to storytelling," organizers noted. "We support creative engagement with the reserve in many forms. Opportunities like this can be a meaningful way for people to connect with the spirit of Ebey's Reserve."

The prizes give the competition real weight. Judges will award a $500 grand prize to the best film to meet the criteria. A people's choice award with a $500 prize will also be up for grabs, and could overlap with the grand prize winner. Films will be evaluated by a panel that includes committee members and others.

Registration closes April 8 for the island-wide competition. More information, including registration details, is available at coupevillecreativedistrict.org/2026-filmslam.