Connecting and inspiring communities through stories of Asian American and Pacific Islanders from Silicon Valley and North America.

The Silicon Valley Asian American Pacific Film Festival provides a platform for the artistry of storytelling of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities through the lens of the American experience — the imaginable and the unimaginable — connecting our lives and communities through written words, song, and performance. In support of authentic human storytelling and artistic expression, we do not accept AI-curated films.

We will be hosting both an In-Person and Online Film Festival. The In-Person Festival will take place October 22–25, 2026 at DeAnza Performing Arts Center and AMC Dine-In Theater in Sunnyvale, CA. The Online Festival will run from October 26 – November 1, 2026.

Please submit films that can be presented either in person or online. We are only accepting AAPI films from the United States, Canada, and United States Territories.

Submission does not guarantee acceptance into the festival.

Early Submission Fee: $25
Late Submission Fee: $50

Submission fees are non-refundable.

For questions, please contact us. Thank you.

Rules & Terms

Online screening of film open to the public.
Prefer films from United States, United States Territories, or Canada
Films must have a connection (filmmaker, actor/actress, story, etc.) to Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders.
24 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Eljin Yoo

    I had the most wonderful experience at this year's SVAPFF with my short film Sonata! From the extremely high quality selection and programming to the warmth and enthusiasm from the staff and volunteers, I truly felt welcomed and celebrated in the passionate and uplifting Silicon Valley community! With plenty of networking opportunities and events to connect with other filmmakers, a wonderful theatre that amplifies the amazing films being showcased, and an audience that is truly passionate about identity and cultural specificity, this festival is truly one you cannot miss out on!

    November 2025
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  • Matthew Baltar

    I screened my short film at the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific FilmFest this year, and it was easily one of my favorite festival experiences. The event was held at the AMC 12 in Sunnyvale—a beautiful, comfortable theater—and everything from submission to screening was smooth and well-communicated.

    What makes this festival truly special is its focus on community. The organizers go above and beyond to connect filmmakers—from hosting a pre-festival luncheon to providing spaces to hang out and chat. It’s clear they care as much about the people behind the films as the films themselves.

    The warmth and support of SVAPFF come straight from the organizers, whose care and generosity set the tone for everything. It felt less like a film festival and more like screening for a family block party hosted by all of your proud aunties cheering you on!

    November 2025
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  • Dorothy Xiao

    SVAFPFF is a wonderful Festival run by a group of lovely staff and volunteers. My first time playing with them was a virtual Festival during the pandemic, so when my short "Only In This World" got accepted in the most recent edition, I made sure to go in person! We felt very welcome by all the staff and volunteers, and really enjoyed connecting with other filmmakers and community members. Being able to share my film with the local Silicon Valley community and hearing reactions from the audience is invaluable feedback. I'll definitely be returning!

    October 2025
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  • Rick Quan

    I had a great time being part of the Silicon Valley Asian Pacific film festival. I felt I was treated like a real VIP. I enjoyed the hospitality and the professionalism of the question and answer session following my documentary. I also appreciated the honorarium to help with my travel.

    October 2025
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  • Sybil Wendler

    SVAPFF was one of the best festival experiences I've had the pleasure of attending. It was superbly organized and done with amazing hospitality for the filmmakers and all attendees. Thank you, Joanne, and everyone at SVAPFF, for your hard work in making the festival such a joyous celebration!

    January 2025
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