The Big Muddy Film Festival is an annual, student-organized film festival originating from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, recognized as one of the nation's oldest university-affiliated film festivals. Rooted in themes of community, accessibility, social justice, and the environment, it features competitive categories including Narrative, Documentary, Animation, and Experimental films. The festival presents awards for the best works in these categories, among others. The 48th edition of the festival was held in March 2026.