Film Fest Petaluma is an annual showcase of the best new short films from around the world with filmmakers in conversation. Located in the heart of wine country at the historic Mystic Theatre, just 30 miles north of Golden Gate Bridge, the festival has developed a reputation as a filmmaker-friendly event centered on community engagement and film education. Petaluma also has one of the most well preserved historic city centers in all of California, facilitating a pedestrian-friendly experience for guests. Travel grants are available for filmmakers who are invited to participate.

Rules & Terms

The festival showcases a wide variety of animation, live action, documentary, and experimental works under 30 minutes. All international films must be subtitled or dubbed in English. Priority consideration is given to submissions where a primary member of the cast or crew will attend the screening.
4 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Christopher Graham

    Great experience! Wonderful team. Very responsive, and despite the challenges presented by Covid, the folks at Petaluma FF curated a special event.

    June 2021
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  • Russell Sharman

    Absolutely LOVED my experience with Petaluma. It's been a long strange year, and the folks at Petaluma put together a fantastic program and made filmmakers feel like they were still a part of something special. Can't wait for the chance to attend in person someday. If it's half as supportive and encouraging as the online event this past year, it will be at the top of my list for years to come.

    May 2021
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  • Miles Levin

    I rarely review festivals here because I think ‘Five Stars’ gets thrown around too freely, but this event deserves exactly that. I’ve attended for 7 years and played 5. The event takes great care of you and the programming is the BEST I’ve seen. Networking opportunities have been some of the best I’ve had and because the festival includes international filmmakers I’ve made a lot of special friends. Film fest Petaluma is my favorite day of the year.

    May 2021
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  • Conner Bell

    Film Fest Petaluma is a consistent showcase of world-class short films and incredible hospitality for visiting filmmakers.

    May 2017
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