Where Culture, Coast
& Cinema Collide
25Years of Film, Conversation & Celebrations
JOIN US WHERE GLOBAL STORIES MEET SAN DIEGO’S SPIRIT!
October 14-18, 2026
Set against the stunning backdrop of California’s coastline, the San Diego International Film Festival is more than just a film festival — it’s a cultural experience. From international cinema that sparks global dialogue to local stories that reflect the heart of our community, the Festival brings together the best in cinematic storytelling, creativity, and human connection
Culture
Champions for diverse voices. Bold perspectives. Films that spark empathy and conversation.
Coast
World class cinema blended with the energy and beauty of San Diego — uniting storytellers, changemakers, and film lovers.
Cinema
Experience global standouts, powerful features, bold documentaries, award-winning shorts, and studio premieres of the year’s most acclaimed films.
SIGNATURE EVENTS AT-A-GLANCE
5 Days. 100+ Films. Filmmaker Q&As. Panels. Fest Lounge. VIP Exclusives. Parties. Food. Drinks. Networking Events.
OPENING NIGHT FILM PREMIERE & PARTY
Wednesday, October 14, 2026
THE LOT, LA JOLLA
Kick off the 25th Annual San Diego International Film Festival with an unforgettable Opening Night celebration. Walk the Red Carpet, enjoy cocktails and appetizers at the pre-screening party, and be among the first to experience an exclusive studio premiere. The night continues with a lively post-party — the perfect setting to mix and mingle with fellow film lovers, filmmakers, arts patrons, elected officials, and business leaders.
NIGHT OF THE STARS TRIBUTE
Thursday, October 15 2026
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, La Jolla
The Festival’s most glamorous evening shines as Hollywood’s brightest stars step onto the Red Carpet in La Jolla. This dazzling tribute celebrates the Gregory Peck Excellence in Film Award, previously honoring icons such as Annette Bening. Adrien Brody, Laurence Fishburne, Andy Garcia, Kenny Loggins, Sir Patrick Stewart, Geena Davis and more.
The evening begins with an elegant pre-reception of fine food and signature cocktails, followed by the star-studded awards ceremony. Afterward, the celebration continues with an exclusive after-party featuring a live DJ, handcrafted drinks, and late-night bites.
PARTY WITH A PURPOSE
Saturday, October 17, 2026
Location TBD
Get ready to dance the night away at the legendary Belly Up Tavern. Since 1978, this iconic venue has hosted music greats — and now it’s home to our high-energy Party with a Purpose!
Start with beats from PJ da DJ, then groove to The Mustache Bash Band, delivering disco, funk, and retro cool in a vibrant celebration of ’70s style and sound.
This is more than just a party — it’s a fun-raiser for the Festival’s FOCUS on Impact Education Program, which brings powerful films, curriculum, and meaningful conversations on social impact topics to San Diego high schools.
CULINARY CINEMA
Sunday, October 18, 2026
Hosted by AMC14 at Westfield UTC, La Jolla
The perfect Sunday pairing for foodies and film lovers! Hosted by Shawn Styles of CBS8’s Cooking with Styles, Culinary Cinema begins with a gourmet buffet at the Capital One Café, followed by a cuisine-themed film screening. Afterward, enjoy chef-inspired tastings and perfectly paired wine and cocktails from some of San Diego’s culinary stars. Great food, great film, great company — a Sunday well spent.
Thursday–Sunday, October 16–19, 2025
Independent Films & Studio Premieres
Hosted at Westfield UTC – AMC UTC 14
From high-profile studio premieres to bold independent features, thought-provoking documentaries, and award-winning shorts, the Festival is a celebration of global storytelling. Dive deeper into the creative process with engaging panels and intimate filmmaker Q&As that bring the stories behind the screen to life.
Access is included with VIP and Fest Pass Packages, or you can purchase individual access for a more immersive festival experience.
Thursday–Sunday, October 16–19, 2025
The Fest Lounge
Hosted at Westfield UTC – AMC UTC 14
The Fest Lounge is your exclusive hub to relax, recharge, and connect between screenings. Enjoy complimentary wine, beer, and light bites while engaging in lively conversations with fellow festival-goers, filmmakers, and industry leaders. Access includes all filmmaker panels and industry discussions.
Included with VIP and Fest Pass Packages, or available as a single-day upgrade for a more immersive Festival experience.
Wednesday, Oct. 15
Opening Night Premiere & Party | THE LOT, La Jolla
Red Carpet • Studio Premiere • Party & Celebration
Thursday, Oct. 16
Night of the Stars Tribute | The Conrad, La Jolla
Gregory Peck Award • Star-Studded Ceremony • Exclusive After-Party
Friday, Oct. 17
Party with a Purpose | Belly Up Tavern, Solana Beach
Live Music • Disco Funk Vibes • Festival Fundraiser
Thursday–Sunday, Oct. 16–19
Independent Films & Studio Premieres | AMC UTC 14
Global Cinema • Documentaries • Shorts • Filmmaker Q&As
Friday–Sunday, Oct. 17–19
The Fest Lounge | AMC UTC 14
VIP Hub • Panels • Networking • Drinks & Light Bites
Sunday, Oct. 19
Culinary Cinema | AMC UTC 14 + Capital One Café
Breakfast Bites • Cuisine-Themed Film • Chef Tastings, Wine and Drinks
Note: These events usually sell out. Get your passes now and don’t miss a moment!
