Anyone who has visited Round Top, Texas, during its biannual Antiques Show has felt the unique creative energy pulsing through the town. When tens of thousands of artists, designers, artisans and arts enthusiasts come together, there is inspiration to find around every corner and under any rock. It’s really no wonder why, when mother-daughter duo Shanna and Skylar Schanen decided to bring their dream of a film festival to life, they chose Round Top as its home.
“Round Top is a cinematic dream come true, a place that feels like it’s straight out of a movie,” said Shanna. “Its charming atmosphere, rich culture and vibrant creative community create an irresistible invitation for filmmakers.” Having grown up in nearby La Grange, Shanna has seen the area change, grow and flourish through the infusion of creativity sparked by the Round Top Antiques Show. She has also watched, when the shows were over each season, how the artistic spirit didn’t dissipate.
“This community means so much to us, and we’ve long dreamed of expanding its cultural offerings, not just for the visitors who experience the magic of Round Top, but for the people who live and create here year-round,” Shanna said. “The connection to film came naturally through my daughter and co-founder, Skylar. As a screenwriter and filmmaker, she felt deeply compelled to share her passion with others. As we watched this tiny town bloom with new businesses, we felt inspired to bring another art form to this vibrant community.”
In the fall of 2024, the Round Top Film Festival debuted with a noteworthy advanced screening of the Paramount+ series Landman; a closing night presentation of the Texas-made feature Sheepdog with cast members Virginia Madsen and Vondie Curtis-Hall in attendance; panels featuring thoughtful conversations on topics like women in the industry, fashion in film and how to break into the industry; and honors for Texas natives finding success through the silver screen. Screenings and panels were held at iconic venues, like the ornate Festival Hill and the storied 550 Dance Hall, infusing the character and history of Round Top into the festival.
“These historic spaces, paired with Round Top’s breathtaking landscapes, provide a cinematic back drop that’s unforgettable for both filmmakers and guests,” Shanna expounded. “What makes this place so special is more than just its scenery, it is the sense of community. The festival not only draws visitors from across the country but also supports local businesses and contributes to a growing cultural tradition rooted in creativity and collaboration. Round Top’s distinct character allows the festival to resonate deeply with all who attend. We’re not trying to replicate other festivals; we’re offering something different. This is a destination event: a place to discover exceptional films, build meaningful relationships and soak in the relaxed charm of small-town Texas—all wrapped in a truly magical experience.”
While the full lineup for the 2025 festival was still being finalized at the time this publication was printed, attendees can look forward to a rich variety of films, including narrative features, documentaries, comedies and episodic content. This year, they’ll also debut an awards ceremony to honor outstanding filmmakers and performances across the festival. Furthermore, local Round Top businesses and restaurants will stay open late throughout the festival weekend, giving guests ample opportunity to experience the town’s charm and hospitality after the festival programing wraps.
“With its intimate scale, natural beauty and unmistakable charm, the town creates a welcoming atmosphere that fosters real connection between filmmakers, audiences and the stories that bring them together,” Shanna said. “We believe in the power of story, and we believe in Round Top. To us, that combination felt like the perfect recipe for something truly special.”
Round Top Film Festival will be held: November 6-9, 2025
Explore the lineup and get your passes at: roundtopfilmfest.org
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROUND TOP FILM FESTIVAL