About The Santa Cruz Film Festival

Dive into five electrifying days of world-class films, unforgettable parties, and celebration as the Santa Cruz Film Festival roars back this October 8–12 2025 for its 25th anniversary.

Experience the cinematic spirit of the Central Coast as the Santa Cruz Film Festival celebrates 25 years of movie magic. Over five unforgettable days this October, the city comes alive with world-class films fresh from Sundance, SXSW, and Tribeca, intimate conversations with visiting filmmakers, and lively parties under the Santa Cruz sky. From boundary-pushing documentaries to electrifying narratives, SCFF invites you to immerse yourself in the moving-image arts and connect with a community that thrives on creativity.

Experience bold and necessary storytelling from around the world, including award-winning films fresh from Sundance, SXSW, Cannes, and Tribeca, alongside powerful local stories that showcase Santa Cruz and our endlessly creative Central Coast. Plus, meet the filmmakers at screenings, Q&As, industry panels and at the Opening Night Gala at the Museum of Art and History!

SCFF 25 will be held at The Del Mar Theater, Santa Cruz Cinema Colligan Theater, The 418 Project, and Indexical.