Bernal Heights Outdoor Cinema presents free screenings of diverse, local filmmakers' works in neighborhood parks, playgrounds, and other community-friendly spaces to increase the exposure and recognition of local artists and to heighten appreciation by neighborhood and citywide residents while building and bringing community together.
Each year over the past two decades, community-organized Bernal Heights Outdoor Cinema has brought together an annual summer film festival showcasing local independent film to neighbors in all corners of Bernal Hill. This season, we are planning a full schedule of outdoor and indoor venues during our post Labor Day run, September 10 –12, 2026.
The Submissions & Selection Committee seeks short films or videos in which local residents have participated in any aspect of production, post-production, promotion, or distribution. The Committee strongly encourages San Francisco filmmakers of all backgrounds and lived experiences to submit their work representing the breadth and diversity of San Francisco and Bernal Heights, specifically. Submissions of all genres including narrative, documentary, comedy, art, experimental, animation, and music videos will be considered. NOTE: Works-in-progress accepted, also.
The BHOC line-up features short films or videos — no longer than 20 minutes— in which: 1) local Bay Area residents have participated in any aspect of production or distribution; and 2) the subject matter or theme resonates with current sentiments, issues and challenges facing the neighborhood and residents of Bernal Heights. Special consideration is given to films or videos on which a resident of Bernal Heights participated in any aspect of promotion, production or distribution.
*Need an extension or film's TRT is more than 20 minutes? Contact submissions@bhoutdoorcine.org
Four non-monetary awards are presented to featured filmmakers.
Bernal-based filmmakers are eligible for the "Best of Bernal" award. All filmmakers are considered for the "Spirit of Bernal" award based on the film’s subject matter /theme and its resonance with sentiments, issues, and challenges facing the neighborhood. Emerging filmmakers are eligible for the "Bernal Bright Star" award. These three awards are determined by the Submissions & Selection Committee. The three films awarded by the Submissions & Selection Committee will screen at "Under the Stars — Best of Bernal" at Precita Park on September 12, 2026. The fourth award, the "Good Life Audience Award," is determined by the at-large audience.
The Awards presentation and Audience award-winning film will be presented at the final event of the season, the "Season Finale" screening, awards presentation, and reception.
