Celebrating the Power of Film
24 YEARS OF FILM, CONVERSATION & CELEBRATIONS
Save the Date: October 15-19, 2025!
Film Lovers and Filmmakers from around the world will come together to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling.
The 5-day festival will feature Red Carpet events, including the Opening Night Film Premiere and Reception at the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park and the Night of the Stars Tribute at the Conrad in La Jolla. Enjoy Studio and Independent Features, Documentary and Short Film screenings along with Filmmaker Q&As and Panels at AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC. Attendees can also look forward the ‘always sold out’ Culinary Cinema as well as the Fest Lounge, VIP exclusives, parties, food, drinks and networking events!
Celebrate The Power of Film on the big screen and engage in conversation and celebrations!
PREMIERE EVENTS
Opening Night Film Premiere & Reception — October 15, 2025
TBA
Join us as we kick off the 24th Annual San Diego International Film Festival with an unforgettable Opening Night celebration. Film lovers, filmmakers, arts patrons, elected officials, and business leaders will come together to Celebrate the Power of Film in style. Walk the Red Carpet, enjoy a lively Pre-Screening Cocktail Party, experience an exclusive Studio Film Premiere, and cap off the night with a festive Post-Reception
Night of the Stars Tribute – Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025
La Jolla
The Festival’s most glamorous evening awaits as Hollywood’s brightest stars step onto the Red Carpet in La Jolla! Join us to celebrate the prestigious Gregory Peck Excellence in Film Award, honoring cinematic legends like Penelope Ann Miller, Andy Garcia, Laurence Fishburne, Annette Bening, Kate Beckinsale, and Adrien Brody.
The night kicks off with an elegant pre-reception featuring delectable food and signature drinks, followed by the awards ceremony. Afterward, the energy continues at the exclusive after-party, with live DJ music, refreshing cocktails, and delicious bites.
Culinary Cinema — Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
Culinary Cinema serves up the perfect Sunday experience—a dream come true for foodies and film lovers alike! Hosted by Shawn Styles of CBS8’s Cooking with Styles, the day kicks off with a delectable buffet of bites at the Capital One Café, followed by a cuisine-themed film screening. Afterward, enjoy chef-inspired bites and perfectly paired drinks and wines from some of San Diego’s culinary stars. Great food, great film, and great company—it’s a Sunday well spent!
Independent Films & Studio Premieres — Friday-Sunday, Oct. 16-19, 2025
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
So many choices… which films will you choose?
From high-profile Studio Premieres to powerful Independent Social Impact Features, thought-Documentaries and Short Films—film lovers will be immersed in bold, original storytelling from visionary filmmakers around the world. Enhance your Festival experience with engaging Panels and intimate Filmmaker Q&As that bring the stories behind the screen to life.
Party with a Purpose
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
Immerse yourself in lively conversations about the films you’ve enjoyed that day, while indulging in delicious appetizers and signature cocktails. Join us for an evening filled with excitement, great company, and meaningful connections. Celebrate the power of film to inspire change and create real impact in the world. Let’s raise a glass to the stories that spark transformation!!
The Fest Lounge — Friday-Sunday, Oct. 17-19, 2025
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
The Fest Lounge is your exclusive space to relax, network, and indulge in the best of the festival experience. Enjoy access to all panels with filmmakers and industry influencers, plus complimentary drinks, including wine, beer, and light bites. Engage in lively conversations with fellow festival-goers between screenings and events.
Access is included with VIP and Fest Pass Packages, or you can purchase individual access for a more immersive festival experience.