Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Opening Night Film Premiere & Party
THE LOT La Jolla

Kick off the 24th 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.

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Night of the Stars Tribute
The Conrad, 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.

Friday, October 17, 2025

Party with a Purpose
Belly Up Tavern, Solana Beach

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.

Sunday, October 19, 2025

Culinary Cinema
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC

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.