10 Top Film Festivals in the U.S.

Cannes isn’t the only film festival that has cinema lovers raving. From up-and-comers to heavy hitters, film festivals across the United States are packed for attendees! For new filMMAkers, film festivals are a great way to help boost their careers.

These festivals are all about showcasing a diverse amount of cinematic expression. From indie gems to major premieres, these events are excellent to explore when trying to draw inspiration for your next film.

Get your notepad and pen ready because we’ve listed only the best film festivals in the U.S. to help you plan your next big event!

10. AFI Fest, Los Angeles

Known as one of the longest-running film festivals in California, AFI Fest shows only the year’s most promising films. This festival features work from global showcases and emerging filMMAkers and films from red-carPet premieres.

In 2023, AFI Fest showed over 140 films from more than 40 countries worldwide. Did you know that many winners from this film festival have gone on to be nominated for Emmy and Academy Awards?

When attending the festival, you can purchase a five-day pass to access film and early screenings before tickets go on sale. While a pass does not permit access alone to a screening, you still need to purchase your ticket in advance.

9. Tribeca Film Festival, NYC

The Tribeca Film Festival combines diverse audiences and artists to celebrate Games, audio storytelling, music, and film. Founded by Robert DeNiro in 2001, in 2024, the Tribeca Film Festival will celebrate its 23rd year.

Located in the heart of NYC, you can purchase single tickets for individual programs or ticket packages. Their film screenings show emerging worldwide talent, from music documentaries to comedies and old Hollywood Glamour.

However, it’s worth mentioning that you can’t purchase tickets in person for this festival. You must buy tickets online through the Tribeca website. Additionally, their box office location only takes credit payments and is cashless.

8. Miami Film Festival

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The Miami Film Festival displays the work of American, Ibero-American, and international films. It showcases work from diverse worldwide filters to the Miami Community. Over the years, approximately 45,000 people attend the Miami Film Festival, along with 300 producers, talent professionals, and filmmakers.

This festival hosts yearly events, including industry happy hours, parties, workshops, and masterclasses. It has hosted many Hollywood stars, including Tony Goldwyn, Richard Gere, and Andy Garcia.

Can’t attend in person? Not to worry! The Miami Film Festival also offers an online screening platform for virtual screenings.

7. New York Film Festival (NYFF)

In 2024, the New York Film Festival will celebrate its 62nd edition, featuring highlights from top filmmakers worldwide. In addition to showcasing films at Lincoln Center, the festival includes Talks, Revivals, Spotlight, and Current films.

This film festival is one of the most prestigious in the U.S., managed by the Artistic Director, Dennis Lim. Its Main Slate features discoveries, international art house films, and in-season studio releases.

Typically held in the fall, it’s one of the most talked about events of the year. Presented by Film at Lincoln Center, if you’re an FLC member, you can get early access to festival passes.

6. Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF)

SIFF is an annual Seattle film festival that has been held since 1976. While it usually takes place during the early summer and is one of the largest film festivals worldwide, it has a diverse number of foreign films and independent films.

The festival typically highlights established films, directors, and new voices from over 80 countries. SIFF does more than show off on the screens; it also provides engagement and education programs to learn more about creative expression.

As a member of SIFF, you’ll have access to their four cinemas, discounts, exclusive invites, pre-sale access, and much more! We hope you love popcorn because members receive five complimentary popcorn each year!

5. Los Angeles Film Festival

As the center for independent filmmakers, the Los Angeles Film Festival is another massive event in Celebrity Central. It also hosts a speed-pitching event, where filmmakers submit their pitches and, if they’re chosen, will present them to an industry professional.

LA Film Festival also hosts the LA Horror Film Festival, LA Animated Film Festival, LA Comedy Film Festival, and so much more! All of the film screenings at the Los Angeles Film Festival are held at the film theater in West Hollywood.

If you want to attend a screening, it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early. You can also find public parking at the West Hollywood Gateway Shopping Center.

4. Telluride Film Festival

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Occurring one weekend of the year, the Telluride Film Festival is held in the small mountain village of Telluride, Colorado. Film enthusiasts come in droves for four days of a cinematic experience in a theatrical dark room.

If you want to join this film festival, you can purchase any of their four available passes: Patron, Festival, Acme, or Cinephile. Depending on your pass, you’ll have access to almost 40 film programs at the festival.

Additionally, as a pass holder, you can access social gatherings, and you’ll also be seated before individual ticket holders. Pretty neat, right? If you are passionate about cinema, the Telluride Film Festival is a must-attend event.

3. Chicago International Film Festival

The Chicago International Film Festival is the longest-operating film festival in North America! Since opening in 1965, it has become an annual event, seeking out only the finest international cinema.

Over the years, the film festival has brought up new creative directors, including Wim Wenders and Martin Scorsese. As a Chicago/Cinema member, you won’t only have access to the film festival, but you’ll also get to enjoy events and previews during the year. During the 2023 festival, the event had 60 short films, special events, and over 100 feature films.

This is one of the best film festivals in the U.S. that provides an impressive selection of non-competitive and competitive programming.

2. SXSW Film Festival, Austin

As our runner-up, the SXSW Film Festival is one of Austin’s most popular events, celebrating education, music, film, and tech. This annual event features comedy showcases, television and film screenings, award ceremonies, and tech competitions.

When attending the South by Southwest Film Festival, you’ll have various badges. These badges include the platinum badge, interactive badge, film & tv badge, and music badge.

The SXSW Film Festival is known for showcasing diverse film programs and high-caliber XR projects. Its goal is to serve as a worldwide event for influential, enthusiastic, and intelligent audiences.

1. Sundance Film Festival, Park City

Taking our number one spot for the best film festival in the U.S. is the Sundance Film Festival. In 2024, they will be celebrating the 41st anniversary of the film festival. This festival is the ultimate event for audiences and original storytellers seeking a fresh perspective and new voice.

This festival includes short films, episodic content, documentary features, and dramatic films. If you want to attend this event, the film festival offers three different packages, including the festival package, the locals ticket package, and the Salt Lake City Pass.

The most popular package is the festival package. This will give you ten tickets to in-person screenings and early access ticket selection.