Belleville Downtown Docfest 2025

The 14th Annual Belleville Downtown DocFest will feature outstanding documentaries, filmmaker Q&As, and the Annual Gala Music Feature with a live concert at the historic Empire Theatre in downtown Belleville, February 21st-23rd, 2025.

The 2025 DocFest Gala film is Paul Anka: His Way. From teen idol to chart-topping songwriter, Paul Anka has spent decades as one of the most popular musicians in the world. Part road movie, part living biography, this inspiring film traces the iconic Canadian’s journey, through stardom and constant reinvention in an ever-changing industry.

The 2025 Belleville Downtown DocFest will be entirely in-person and will include fan favorites like the Gala Film and Concert at The Empire Theatre, a Saturday night feature, and screenings throughout the weekend. The Saturday night feature, The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal (Part 1: Looking For A Place To Happen) takes place at The Belleville Theatre Guild, 256 Pinnacle Street at 7:30, ,followed by an in-person Q&A with filmmaker Mike Downie and another special guest (to be announced).

Early Bird Weekend Festival Passes are only $65 and include the Friday Night Gala, all films and filmmaker Q&A’s with the exception of the Saturday, February 22 evening event.

Friday Night Gala Passes are $45 to see Paul Anka: His Way, followed by a live concert at The Empire Theatre (performer to be announced).

Visit downtowndocfest.ca to purchase your passes online. Passes can also be purchased in person at the Belleville Public Library (cash only).