Austin, Texas – The ATX TV Festival, a prominent annual celebration of television, is preparing for its fifteenth season, scheduled to run from to , . This year’s festival promises a series of reunions, screenings, and panels, attracting both industry professionals and dedicated television fans to the heart of Texas.
The festival, often described as “TV Camp for Grown Ups,” has become a significant event for those involved in the creation and appreciation of television. It offers a unique platform for deep dives into the production process of popular shows, revisits to beloved series, and the discovery of emerging content. The ATX TV Festival aims to foster a sense of community among those who share a passion for the medium.
Reunions and Anniversaries Highlight the 2026 Program
A key feature of the festival will be a reunion celebrating the 30th anniversary of the sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond
. The event will bring together Ray Romano, the show’s star, alongside Phil Rosenthal, the creator, and members of the writing staff. Organizers anticipate a discussion focusing on the behind-the-scenes stories and the real-life inspirations that shaped the show’s relatable humor.
Adding to the nostalgia, the festival will also host a 20th-anniversary reunion for the critically acclaimed drama Friday Night Lights
. Confirmed attendees include showrunner Jason Katims, executive producers David Hudgins and Jeffrey Reiner, co-executive producer Liz Heldens, consulting producer Kerry Ehrin, and a significant portion of the original cast: Connie Britton, Kyle Chandler, Gaius Charles, Adrianne Palicki, Jesse Plemons, and Aimee Teegarden. This gathering is expected to provide insights into the making of the series and its enduring cultural impact.
Beyond Reunions: Screenings and Industry Discussions
The ATX TV Festival extends beyond simply revisiting past successes. The program includes screenings of unaired pilots, series that were cancelled prematurely, current favorites, and world premieres, offering attendees a diverse range of viewing experiences. These screenings are often followed by Q&A sessions with the creators and cast, providing a rare opportunity for direct engagement.
Panel discussions will cover a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from in-depth analyses of the television industry to fan-focused conversations and explorations of television’s role and responsibility within broader culture. The festival aims to address the evolving landscape of television and its influence on society.
The “Texas Made” Award and Local Focus
The festival will also present the “Texas Made” Award, recognizing television productions with strong ties to the state of Texas. This award highlights the growing importance of Texas as a hub for television production and acknowledges the contributions of local talent and resources.
ATX TV: A Year-Round Presence
While the festival itself is a concentrated event, ATX TV operates year-round, fostering a continuous dialogue about television. The organization’s website, atxtv.com, serves as a resource for industry news, analysis, and community engagement.
Growing Influence and Industry Recognition
The ATX TV Festival has steadily grown in prominence since its inception, attracting increasing attention from both the television industry and dedicated fans. Its unique format, combining screenings, panels, and reunions, has established it as a distinctive event on the television calendar. The festival’s location in Austin, a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and growing tech industry, further contributes to its appeal.
The festival’s organizers emphasize its commitment to bringing together diverse voices and perspectives within the television industry. By providing a platform for both established professionals and emerging talent, the ATX TV Festival aims to shape the future of television and celebrate its enduring power to connect and entertain audiences worldwide.
The event is owned by ATX Television Festival, LLC, and any unauthorized use of its materials or names is subject to copyright and trademark laws. Further details, including ticketing and hotel information, are available on the official festival website, atxfestival.com.
