Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to plan your LightReel 2026 experience in Washington, DC.

From where to stay to how to get around, here’s how to make the most of your time at the festival.

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Host Hotel

Stay at the Official Host Hotel

Make the most of your LightReel experience by staying at our official host hotel—conveniently located near festival venues in the Union Market District.

Hotel Nell - Union Market
📍 Address: 411 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
📍 Distance: Two minutes (0.2 mi) from the Angelika Pop-Up at Union Market, via Penn St NE

Book Your Stay

👉 Special rates may be available for LightReel guests.

The Neighborhood

Union Market District

LightReel takes place in one of Washington, DC’s most vibrant cultural hubs—home to restaurants, shops, and creative spaces.

👉 Everything you need is within walking distance.

Getting Around

Transportation

  • Metro: Union Market is accessible via NoMa–Gallaudet U (Red Line)

  • Ride Share: Uber and Lyft widely available

  • Walkability: Many venues are within walking distance

Parking

Parking

Parking is available throughout the Union Market District and surrounding areas.

👉 (Union Market Parking Garages)

  • Reagan National Airport (DCA) – closest airport

  • Dulles International Airport (IAD)

  • Union Station (Amtrak & regional rail)

Traveling to DC

Getting to Washington, DC

  • June 3–6, 2026 — LightReel Film Festival

  • June 8–10, 2026 — LightReel at Home (Virtual)

👉 Full schedule will be released April 7, 2026.

Plan Your Schedule

Key Festival Dates

What’s Next

Festival Announcements

  • April 7 — Film Lineup Announcement

  • April 14 — Opening Night Film Announcement

  • April 21 — IndustryInsights Speaker Reveal

  • April 28 — Closing Night Film Announcement

  • May 5 — Single Tickets On Sale

Plan Your Festival Experience

Explore films, events, and conversations across LightReel 2026.

Explore Festival Passes