FAQ Year Round
We will try to answer all your questions as soon as possible, but please expect up to a 4 hour delay in response outside of our business hours listed above.
Festival passes will go on sale in the coming weeks. Consider checking out our new Memberships, some of which include fest passes!
Many of the films we screen will be available both in-person and virtually. There are a small handful of films that will only have an in-person screening. There are also a small handful of films that will only have virtual screenings.
All films on the virtual platform will be available to watch throughout the United States.
NewFest adheres to New York City guidelines and will continue to monitor and adapt as COVID-19 circumstances evolve to provide a safe experience for all NewFest filmmakers and audiences. Proof of government ID and vaccination may be required for In-Person attendees at select venues.
Masks will be required in the theater when not eating or drinking. NewFest reserves the right to turn any guest away and ask them to leave should they not comply with the COVID Safety Guidelines.
Masks will be required in the theater when not eating or drinking. NewFest reserves the right to turn any guest away and ask them to leave should they not comply with the COVID Safety Guidelines.
Contact us via email at boxoffice@newfest.org
You can become a NewFest member and enjoy discounts and benefits throughout the year at newfest.org/join!
All ticket purchases are final upon payment and non-refundable.
Contact us via email at boxoffice@newfest.org
This means that tickets for a screening are no longer available. Rush Tickets are tickets that are sold after all Ticket and Pass Holders have entered the theater and there are empty seats to sell (Like a stand-by line for a flight).
For events where there are no longer advanced tickets available for purchase – we highly encourage guests to make use of our successful Rush Sales policy. Rush Sales Lines will form at the venue approximately 45 minutes prior to the scheduled event start time. Admission will begin approximately 10-15 minutes before the event’s start time based on availability. Admission is not guaranteed. Rush Sales are limited to one (1) ticket per person. We accept the following payment methods: cash or credit card.
PLEASE NOTE: Each venue may have a slightly adjusted rush plan based on Venue and COVID restriction, please check in with venue and box office staff for exact instructions.
PLEASE NOTE: Each venue may have a slightly adjusted rush plan based on Venue and COVID restriction, please check in with venue and box office staff for exact instructions.
NewFest continues to work towards making all film programming accessible to its audiences. All of our theaters are accessible by elevator and can accommodate wheelchair seating. If you need wheelchair accessible seating for any festival event, please speak to the Venue Manager upon arrival.
For more information on accessibility by venue, please visit our Venues page. For information on our accessibility policies and supports available per film, visit our Accessibility page.
For more information on accessibility by venue, please visit our Venues page. For information on our accessibility policies and supports available per film, visit our Accessibility page.
If you need reasonable modifications due to a disability, including need for communications in an alternate format for any festival event, please contact us at boxoffice@newfest.org. Please contact us seven days (7) in advance of the event to facilitate your request.
Outside food and drinks are not permitted at any festival venue. Concessions are available at BAM for all screenings. Concessions are available for NewFest Pride at SVA Theatre.
For more information on each venue, visit our Venues page.
For more information on each venue, visit our Venues page.
To guarantee admission all pass and ticket holders must be present in line at the venue at 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. We reserve the right to sell any empty seats after that time. Late seating is at the discretion of the venue management team and is not permitted 30 minutes after the start time of any screening or event.
All Sales Are Final. No Refunds. No Exchanges. All Rights Reserved.
All Sales Are Final. No Refunds. No Exchanges. All Rights Reserved.
To purchase a Pass, visit here
You can access the programming through the NewFest Virtual Festival on-demand platform at watch.newfest.org. Log in using your Elevent email address and password (the same credentials you used to purchase this pass). If you received a complimentary pass and don’t already have an existing Elevent account, please register at goelevent.com in order to access the screening portal. On the platform, when you have selected a program you would like to view, click on the Watch Now button.
Note: Just as physical screenings have limited seating capacity, because of agreements with filmmakers and distributors, there are a limited number of views allowed for each film. In the event that a film reaches that predetermined limit, it will be marked as Sold Out.
Note: Just as physical screenings have limited seating capacity, because of agreements with filmmakers and distributors, there are a limited number of views allowed for each film. In the event that a film reaches that predetermined limit, it will be marked as Sold Out.
Your Pass allows for single access to NewFest Virtual Festival and is not shareable. It only allows for one view per film at a time.
Refunds are not available. Before completing your order, please ensure that your browser and device are compatible for streaming. Please refer to the Technical Requirements at the end of this FAQ before purchasing a ticket. All sales are final.
Please note: Individual Streaming Tickets are almost always only available during the festival.
Please visit newfest.org/events to view our full list of films. When you find a film that you would like to watch, simply click on the Get Tickets button. Add your ticket to the cart, and check out. Tickets are subject to availability, so please book yours in advance to avoid disappointment.
Please visit newfest.org/events to view our full list of films. When you find a film that you would like to watch, simply click on the Get Tickets button. Add your ticket to the cart, and check out. Tickets are subject to availability, so please book yours in advance to avoid disappointment.
If you purchase your ticket prior to the series start date, you will have access to start streaming films on the first day of the series at 12 PM EST through the last day of the series at 11:59pm EST. Films will only be available for 48 hours after pressing Play for the first time.
For all films purchased after the event start date at 12 PM EST, you will receive a Virtual Access email from us (donotreply@mail.goelevent.com) immediately following purchase that unlocks access to that film on our NewFest Virtual on-demand platform, watch.newfest.org. Press Play and enjoy!
Note: Just as physical screenings have limited seating capacity, because of agreements with filmmakers and distributors, there are a limited number of views allowed for each film. In the event that a film reaches that predetermined limit, it will be marked as Sold Out.
For all films purchased after the event start date at 12 PM EST, you will receive a Virtual Access email from us (donotreply@mail.goelevent.com) immediately following purchase that unlocks access to that film on our NewFest Virtual on-demand platform, watch.newfest.org. Press Play and enjoy!
Note: Just as physical screenings have limited seating capacity, because of agreements with filmmakers and distributors, there are a limited number of views allowed for each film. In the event that a film reaches that predetermined limit, it will be marked as Sold Out.
Tickets may be purchased for other people, but the voucher code associated with the ticket cannot be used more than once. A voucher code will unlock the film when it is entered, and the viewer will only have 48 hours to complete the film after pressing Play for the first time.
Yes, we are offering a discount for Members.
Refunds are not available. Before completing your order, please ensure that your browser and device are compatible for streaming. Please refer to the Technical Requirements at the end of this FAQ before purchasing a ticket. All sales are final.
Just like with our in-person screenings, each screening is subject to capacity, so there is a finite amount of tickets available for each film. Please ensure you purchase your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
Streaming Ticket confirmation emails are sent automatically when an order has been made. If you do not receive within a few minutes, please check your junk or spam folders. If you purchase your ticket prior to the series start date, you should receive your virtual access email on the series start date at around 11am ET.
For all films purchased after the series start date at 12 PM EST, you will receive a Virtual Access email from us (donotreply@mail.goelevent.com) immediately following purchase that unlocks access to that film on our NewFest Virtual Festival on-demand platform, watch.newfest.org. If you do not receive within a few minutes, please check your junk or spam folders.
If you need any assistance beyond this, please contact boxoffice@newfest.org
For all films purchased after the series start date at 12 PM EST, you will receive a Virtual Access email from us (donotreply@mail.goelevent.com) immediately following purchase that unlocks access to that film on our NewFest Virtual Festival on-demand platform, watch.newfest.org. If you do not receive within a few minutes, please check your junk or spam folders.
If you need any assistance beyond this, please contact boxoffice@newfest.org
Once you press ‘Play’ on your film, you will have 48 hours to view it or until the film’s availability window ends. You can start it and re-watch it within this 48-hour viewing window unless its availability ends before then.
Yes! NewFest has an app, which is available for free download on AppleTV, Roku, FireStick and Google Chromecast. You can also port your computer or phone to your television through a variety of methods. Please see the Technical Requirements section below for more information.
You will need to be based in the US, have a valid email address, a NewFest Virtual Festival Pass or individual ticket, and a computer, mobile phone, tablet, or Apple TV, Roku, or Firestick connected to or on your television. For additional Technical Requirements, please see the next section.
After purchasing your NewFest Virtual Festival Pass or ticket, and logging into watch.newfest.org, simply click on your desired selection, then click on the Play button to begin.
Currently you may stream through the following web browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. For both PC and Apple computers, we recommend that you use the latest version of your browser. Note: Internet Explorer is not supported with this platform.
NEWFEST App on Apple TV (Apple TV HD/Generation 4 or higher only), Roku (Software minimum v9.2.0 b4000), or Amazon FireStick(All Versions)
FOR PASS HOLDERS
Go to watch.newfest.org/pair on your computer/phone/tablet, you will need to login to watch.newfest.org using the username and password you registered with upon purchasing your pass. In the NEWFEST app on your AppleTV or Roku device, select the login option ‘MEMBER LOGIN, Login with My Pass’, and then enter the code displayed on your TV in the designated area on your computer. If you do not already have our app downloaded, search for ‘NEWFEST’ in the Roku channel store and click ‘Add Channel’ OR search for ‘NEWFEST’ in the Apple TV store and click ‘Get the App.’
FOR INDIVIDUAL TICKET HOLDERS
Go to watch.newfest.org/pair on your computer/phone/tablet. You will need to login to watch.newfest.org using the username and password you registered with upon purchasing your pass. In the NEWFEST app on your AppleTV or Roku device, select the login option ‘Login with My Ticket Voucher’, enter the ticket voucher number (this number is located in your Virtual Access email, below the ‘View on Cinesend’ button) and then enter the code displayed on your TV in the designated area on your computer. If you do not already have our app downloaded, search for ‘NEWFEST VIRTUAL FESTIVAL’ in the Roku channel store and click ‘Add Channel’ OR search for ‘NEWFEST VIRTUAL FESTIVAL’ in the Apple TV store and click ‘Get the App.’
Screen Sharing (Chromecast & Apple TV)
You may stream films on Chromecast or Apple TV (all generations) by screen sharing your smartphone, tablet, or computer on the same Wi-Fi network. Instructions for screen sharing using your Apple TV using AirPlay can be found here. For information on screen sharing using your Chromecast, click here.
For more information, please refer to the Technical Requirements at the bottom of this FAQ.
Based on individual rights from content licensors, the majority of our films will be available for Pass and Ticket-holders to stream beginning at 12 PM (EST) on the series start date. All programs must be watched by the series end date at 11:59pm ET.
Yes. You may watch a program as many times as you like for the duration of your Pass or Ticket. However, please note that each film has a limited overall number of views available, and if it reaches that predetermined limit, it will no longer be available and be listed as Sold Out.
The NewFest Virtual Festival platform uses DRM technology to prevent downloading as a security measure. All programs may only be watched while streaming. It is not possible to download a program.
For security reasons, you must view your program on the same Wi-Fi network or Internet connection. Once you start your stream in one location, you cannot continue viewing it in another location or on a different network. For example, if you start watching at home and try to restart at a friend’s house, you will receive this error message. Alternatively, you can only use different devices in one location if they are using the same network. For example, if you start watching on a TV and switch to a tablet or laptop, they both need to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
If you believe you’re receiving the message in error, please contact boxoffice@newfest.org
If you believe you’re receiving the message in error, please contact boxoffice@newfest.org
Yes, to the best of our abilities. You may reach our staff via email or over the phone to address questions about the NewFest website and NewFest Virtual Festival. Please note, however, that we are unable to troubleshoot issues with equipment or other technologies, and ask you to refer to the Technical Requirements below for more information. NewFest support is available at boxoffice@newfest.org
You can watch content on PCs running Windows 7+, and Intel-based Macs running OSX 10.12+. You can also watch films on Android tablets and phones using Chrome, and on iPhones and iPads using Safari.
Windows 7, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10
Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser. Internet Explorer is not supported.
Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser. Internet Explorer is not supported.
Mac OSX 10.12 or later
Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser. Internet Explorer is not supported.
Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser. Internet Explorer is not supported.
You can download the NewFest app through an AppleTV (4th gen or higher), Roku (4th gen or higher) and Firestick device. Please note that Roku Ultra is known to have playback issues. Also, you must be using an AppleTV device (NOT the AppleTV app) to access the NewFest app.
Yes, you can watch programs using Safari on iOS 11.2 or later.
Note: The “Screen Mirroring” feature cannot be used – please ensure you turn off Screen Mirroring if you encounter trouble playing content. Additionally, you cannot use a lightning to HDMI adapter to connect to your TV. Try using AirPlay instead if you have a compatible TV or streaming box.
Note: The “Screen Mirroring” feature cannot be used – please ensure you turn off Screen Mirroring if you encounter trouble playing content. Additionally, you cannot use a lightning to HDMI adapter to connect to your TV. Try using AirPlay instead if you have a compatible TV or streaming box.
Yes, you can watch programs using Chrome on Android 6.0 or later.
You can Chromecast to a 3rd generation or newer Chromecast stick.
Make sure your Chromecast devices is on the same Wi-fi network as your mobile device
After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.
After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.
Make sure you’re using Google Chrome as your browser.
After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.
After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.
You can AirPlay from most browsers if you have an AirPlay compatible TV or streaming box by selecting the AirPlay button in the bottom right-hand side of the player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.
Compatible streaming boxes include AppleTV Gen4 and above, and select Roku HD streaming devices running the most up-to-date software.
Maybe. Unfortunately many built-in Smart TVs’ web browsers don’t support protected content playback. If you get a black screen or error message, it’s likely that your TV is not compatible. Try another method to get the video onto your TV.
You can directly connect your laptop or computer using an HDMI cable, by following these steps:
–Make sure your computer is close enough to your TV for the HDMI cable to reach.
–Connect one end of the HDMI cable into your computer.
–Plug the other end of the cable into an available HDMI port on the TV. Take note of the HDMI input number.
–Using the TV’s remote control, set the TV to the HDMI input that matches the port you connected the cable to.
–If your computer’s display does not automatically appear on your television screen, you may need to have the computer manually detect the display:
Windows: Right-click on the desktop and select “Display Settings” > “Detect” > “Multiple displays”, and select “Duplicate these displays”), and click Apply.
Mac: Go to the Apple Menu and choose “System Preferences”. Choose “Displays”, and hold down the “Option” key to show the “Detect Displays” button. Click on “Detect Displays” while holding down the Option key.
–Make sure your computer is close enough to your TV for the HDMI cable to reach.
–Connect one end of the HDMI cable into your computer.
–Plug the other end of the cable into an available HDMI port on the TV. Take note of the HDMI input number.
–Using the TV’s remote control, set the TV to the HDMI input that matches the port you connected the cable to.
–If your computer’s display does not automatically appear on your television screen, you may need to have the computer manually detect the display:
Windows: Right-click on the desktop and select “Display Settings” > “Detect” > “Multiple displays”, and select “Duplicate these displays”), and click Apply.
Mac: Go to the Apple Menu and choose “System Preferences”. Choose “Displays”, and hold down the “Option” key to show the “Detect Displays” button. Click on “Detect Displays” while holding down the Option key.
Use the password reset option on the login page on watch.newfest.org to reset your password. You will need access to the e-mail address you use to log in.
We use adaptive bitrate streaming which means the streaming quality will automatically adjust based on your internet speed. If your internet connection is poor or inconsistent you may experience problems during playback. If you’re on wifi, try moving closer to your router.
You likely have “Screen Mirroring” turned on in your device settings. Please turn off the screen mirroring setting and start AirPlay by selecting the AirPlay button in the bottom right-hand side of the player.
If you have an external display or TV connected with an HDMI cable, try disconnecting it. If videos play after it is disconnected, then unfortunately the display or cable doesn’t support encrypted video. Try another method.
Some Chromecast versions cannot support transitions from one video to another. If this happens, turn off casting and re-start it once the film starts playing.