2026 Festival Special Events!

Wednesday, February 4th

5:30pm - 7:00 pm Reception

7:00 - 9:00 pm Screening 

Opening Night Reception to thank our wonderful sponsors, followed by a screening of the exciting documentary, In the Track of: Lalo Schifrin, a tribute to the legendary composer and his immense body of work, paired with the student-produced short film, Behind the Score, about the Pakistani behind Hollywood's most iconic soundtracks. Both films are in competition and celebrate the art of film music and sound.  Enjoy delicious appetizers and wine!

Thursday, February 5th

5:30pm - 7:00 pm Reception

7:00pm - 9:00 pm Screening

Independent Spirit Night Reception followed by a screening of the touching feature film, Whisper My Name, our first-ever screening of a feature film from Iran. Celebrate emerging and independent film and filmmakers.  Indulge yourself with snacks, appetizers, and wine. Join the fun as we honor the independent at this specially themed event! 

Friday, February 6th

Reception 5:30pm - 7:00 pm

Screening + Q&A (TBA) 7:00pm - 9:00 pm

Filmmaker Welcome Night Reception plus a special competition screening of the multi-award-winning film Burt! Join us in a special welcome event to celebrate all of our filmmakers. Enjoy a reception with wine and food from Boni's Tacos while you mix and mingle with our amazing filmmakers from around the world.

Thursday, February 5th 4:00 pm (CCAT)

Friday, February 6th, 7:00 pm (Moonstone Cellars) 

The Cambria Film Festival is again proud to host our annual Emerging Filmmaker Competition! Enjoy these incredible short films that inspire, entertain, and challenge our perspectives - all created by talented student filmmakers from incredible student filmmaking programs worldwide. 

Friday, February 6th 12:00 pm

Saturday, February 7th 12:00 pm 

Sunday, February 8th 12:00 pm 

We are proud to present our first-ever Family Film Block - a curation of short films that are designed especially for our younger viewers and those who are young at heart. This showcase features family-friendly films and is FREE and open to the community. Get ready for a wild ride with everything from mischievous cats to a surfing tortoise named Dennis! These films will tickle your funny bone and bring joy to your day. Come join the excitement!

Thursday, February 5th 12:00 pm

Friday, February 6th 12:00 pm

Saturday, February 7th 12:00 pm 

Returning again this year is our ongoing series of Lunchtime Film Talks.  These talks focus on what goes on behind the scenes of your favorite films, hosted by working industry professionals offering an exciting glimpse into movie magic! The talks are FREE and open to the community. Feel free to bring your lunch or pre-order a delicious wrap from the Cambria favorite, The Spot, and come join the excitement!

Friday, February 6th 9:30 pm 

(Late Nite - Hosted by Filmmaker Jeff Wallace with special Q&As)

Encore -Saturday, February 7th, 4:00 pm 

Returning again this year, we are proud to present the 2026 version of Late Nite Cinema - a curation of short films that are designed to thrill, chill, and showcase everything that goes “bump” in the night. From historic hauntings to uncanny incidents, these films are sure to send a chill down your spine. Join the fun - if you dare!

Saturday, February 7th

Reception 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Awards Presentation 8:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Awards Reception & Presentation Event. Join us as we celebrate the films and filmmakers of the 2026 Cambria Film Festival at our 9th Annual Awards Reception! Wear your best and enjoy a wine reception sponsored by Parr Collective and amazing hors d'oeuvres from Robin's Restaurant before the Awards Ceremony. Who will take home the prize this year?