---An important update from the Santa Barbara Indie Film Festiva---

With heavy hearts, we're announcing that the 4th Annual Santa Barbara Indie Film Festival will not be taking place this year. This was not a decision we made lightly, and we are deeply grateful for the filmmakers, volunteers, sponsors, and audiences who have made this festival something truly special.

The spirit of independent film — bold, brave, and boundary-pushing — is alive and well in Santa Barbara, and so are we. We look forward to coming back stronger in 2027 and are already thinking about what's next.

Thank you for three incredible years.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • A wonderful festival and a joy to participate in.

    September 2025
  • Do not miss this gem in the heart of Santa Barbara! Dave and his whole crew were amazing. They truly are lovers of film and supporters of up and coming filmmakers. The quality of films accepted was incredibly inspiring. And the ability to meet and chat with other filmmakers was a perfect way to end the evening. Don't skip this one. It was truly such a wonderful weekend of amazing films and making new friends.

    September 2025
  • RYAN KELLEY

    Dave runs a fantastic regional festival in Sunny SB! I'd recommend this to local filmmakers to the 805 Area - Ventura, SB, and SLO Counties. Even Los Angeles.
    You will meet local talent and actually get a chance to mingle and network!

    September 2025
  • Great festival! Dave the festival director is a filmmaker himself and puts a lot of care into the proceedings. We had a fun screening and ended up with a really nice award for Best Local Filmmaker. Love the emphasis on local films, and it's one of the best times of year to be in Santa Barbara. Looking forward to watching this one grow, we'll definitely be back

    March 2025
  • Jack Hinz

    This is such a lovely festival with a brilliant support of young filmmakers. I am so grateful to receive an Award of Excellence for my documentary, Foundation. Cheers

    November 2024