SLO International Film Festival
San Luis Obispo rolls out the red carpet each spring for storytelling with heart—where independent film meets small-town charm, walkable streets, and conversations that linger long after the credits roll.
- Dates 2026: April 23–28
- Location: Walkable downtown San Luis Obispo, with marquee screenings at the Fremont Theater and the SLO Film Center at the Palm Theater
- Highlights: An annual celebration featuring dozens of independent film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, engaging panels and after-parties, plus the always-loved Surf Nite. The festival is also Academy Award® Qualifying for Documentary Short Films, drawing filmmakers and film lovers from near and far.
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
San Luis Obispo International Film Festival is a highly regarded regional celebration of international and local cinema on California’s Central Coast. Rooted in community and creative exchange, the festival showcases films that spark conversation, inspire new ideas, and bring people together. It is recognized as an Academy Award® Qualifying Festival for Documentary Short Films and has been named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.
Book a two-night stay at a San Luis Obispo hotel during SLO Film Fest, April 23–28, and you’ll be right in the heart of it all.
See + Stay Package
What better way to experience the SLO Film Fest than by calling downtown home for the weekend?
Book a two-night stay at a participating San Luis Obispo hotel during the SLO Film Fest and you’ll be right in the middle of it all—steps from screenings, special events, and that unmistakable festival buzz.
The See + Stay package includes two See + Stay Passes (a $570 value—$285 per pass). Each pass includes:
- Access for one person to *select special events and panels
- Access for one person to the Festival Lounge
- Four tickets to regular, in-person screenings
That’s eight screening tickets total—plus all the extra festival moments that make the weekend feel special.
How it works:
- Book a stay of at least two nights at a participating SLO hotel
- Valid only for bookings made April 23–28, 2026
- Forward your original booking confirmation email (from the property or booking site) to [email protected]
- If your reservation changes after qualifying, the updated confirmation must be sent as a new entry
- Once verified, you’ll receive your See + Stay Passes and tickets
A few things to know:
- No refunds or exchanges
- Passes are valid for one person each
- For ticketing questions, visit slofilmfest.org/boxoffice or email [email protected]
Settle in, press play, and live the SLO Life—film fest style.
Where to Stay During the SLO Film Festival
San Luis Obispo HotelsChoose walkable downtown stays near the Fremont Theater and The Palm Theatre so you can stroll between screenings and supper without missing a beat. You’ll also find comfortable options just a short bike ride away, keeping everything close and easy. Festival week fills fast, so booking early helps lock in perks like parking, late check-in, and breakfast. Browse San Luis Obispo Hotels to find your homebase away from home.
What to Expect
The six-day San Luis Obispo International Film Festival offers something for everyone, featuring the latest documentaries, narratives, and short films from around the world. With over 100 films showcased, attendees can enjoy filmmaker Q&A sessions, workshops, panel discussions, and collaborations with nonprofits and community groups making an impact. Special events and unique experiences with VIP guests add to the excitement. Visit the festival lounge to connect with industry professionals, filmmakers, and fellow movie enthusiasts while enjoying refreshments, local bites, and wine tastings from nearby vendors and wineries.
SLO Film Fest: How the Week Comes Together
Here’s how films and events typically unfold across walkable downtown San Luis Obispo during SLO Film Fest.
Opening Night
Our kickoff celebration of a new and noteworthy independent film alongside a celebratory gala reception. Previous years have brought films such as the critically acclaimed Ghostlight, BlackBerry and Academy Award nominated documentary Fire of Love.
Surf Nite in SLO
One of the biggest and most anticipated events, Surf Nite is a celebration of surfing on the big screen! With iconic cars lining the streets, drinks in the lobby and live music from local surf-rock bands, join for what’s been coined the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” for surf and film lovers. Enjoy a new surf film with legendary surfers in attendance and live surf-rock music.
Spotlight Award Conversations
Daytime conversations with industry professionals and their remarkable careers through along with their new work, allowing attendees to appreciate the depth and artistry of their films. Previous recipients of these prestigious awards have gone to Jeff Bridges, Morgan Freeman, Alan Arkin, Pam Grier, Heather Graham, Judd Hirsch, Norman Jewison, James Cromwell, Ann-Margret, Alfred Molina, and many more.
Closing Night + Awards
Witness the award winners of our George Sidney Film Competition and Central Coast Filmmaker Showcase, along with a new and noteworthy independent film featuring special guests. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating creativity, storytelling, and the art of filmmaking.
Plan Your Trip to SLO
Settle into the SLO vibe—walkable downtown streets, golden-hour strolls, easygoing cafés, and that unhurried wine-country pace that invites you to linger. With venues clustered downtown, getting around is simple on foot, by bike, or via quick rideshares. The festival makes the perfect event for a long weekend, with plenty to explore between screenings. Pro tip: arrive a day early or stay through the finale to savor nearby bites, beaches, and hikes at your own pace.
Fill Your Free Time Around SLO Town
Things to do in SLOHave 90 minutes? Grab a great coffee, browse local boutiques and galleries, or sip a glass of wine on a sunny patio downtown. Have a free afternoon? Sneak in a beach run, a vineyard tasting, or a morning hike before the next screening. Reservations are smart on festival nights, especially for dinner. For more ideas, explore things to do in SLO and build your between-films game plan. Consider it part of the program—just at a slower pace.
