We’ve got the ultimate film festival and event guide for 2024-2025, fresh off the red carpet! Whether you're rubbing elbows with A-listers like Leo DiCaprio or vibing with indie folks from A24, there's something here for you.
You’ll find everything from some of the most famous, world-renowned international film festivals and niche, smaller film festivals to more film industry events for business, networking, production, and actor programs.
In case you didn’t know, there are over 5,000 film festivals that happen every year across the globe. Here’s a quick snapshot of how many film festivals you can find in different countries:
Save this list of the biggest film festivals across the world to start planning for your 2024-2025 event calendar.
Lights, camera, action—let's dive in! Here’s the full list of 54 of the biggest film festivals.
- Sundance Film Festival
- Cannes Film Festival
- Toronto International Film Festival
- Venice Film Festival
- SXSW Film & TV Festival
- Tribeca Film Festival
- Berlinale - Berlin International Film Festival
- AFI Fest
- Edinburgh International Film Festival
- Fantastic Fest
- New York Film Festival
- A24 Film Summit (Speculative)
- Raindance film festival
- Slamdance film festival
- Fantastic Planet Film Festival
- Annecy International Animation Film Festival
- CPH (Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival)
- BFI London Film Festival
- Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF)
- Sitges Film Festival
- Tallin Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF)
- Göteborg Film Festival
- Busan International Film Festivals
- Oaxaca FilmFest
- New Filmmakers LA (NFMLA)
- Catalyst Content Festival
- FilmGate Interactive Media Festival
- The Media Production and Technology Show (MPTS)
- Stowe Story Labs
- Women in Film Summit (WIF)
- SeriesFest
- HollyShorts Film Festival
- Film Independent Forum
- Future of Film Summit
- NAB Show
- American Film Market (AFM)
- IFP (Independent Filmmaker Project)
- The Power of Film Summit
- CinemaCon
- World Congress of Science and Factual Producers (WCSFP)
- Realscreen Summit
- Sundance Institute Creative Producing Summit
- Film Finance Forum
- Hot Docs Forum
- Actors Pro Expo
- Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Rising Stars Program
- Sundance Film Festival Acting Labs
- New York Film Academy (NYFA) Acting Workshops and Masterclasses
- Berlinale Talents
- Austin Film Festival’s Pitch Competition and Roundtable
- ActorFest
- The Hollywood Talent Summit
- Raindance Acting and Filmmaking Workshops
- Screen Actors Guild (SAF-AFTRA) Foundation Workshops
📕 Related: How to build a sales pipeline in the film industry
The biggest film festivals worldwide
Let’s start with some of the big-hitters. Some of these film festivals are internationally recognized and you’ve probably heard of them at least once before.
Many of the biggest film festivals have thousands of attendees and span a wide range of film genres and topics.
1. Sundance Film Festival
The crown jewel of indie cinema, where boundary-pushing films meet fresh talent. Sundance is a playground for filmmakers, actors, and film lovers alike, offering a mix of star-studded premieres and thought-provoking documentaries.
- Date: January 18-28, 2024
- Location: Park City, Utah
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, producers, industry insiders, and film buffs looking for the next big thing.
- Register or learn more here: sundance.org
2. Cannes Film Festival
Ah, Cannes! Where the crème de la crème of the film world gather for opulence, glamour, and award-winning cinema. It’s all about high fashion, star-studded red carpets, and top-tier international films.
- Date: May 14-25, 2024
- Location: Cannes, France
- Who should attend: A-list celebs, producers, directors, and fans of global cinema.
- Register or learn more here: festival-cannes.com
3. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
A heavy-hitter for anyone serious about films. TIFF is where big studios and indie filmmakers alike premiere their future blockbusters. It’s also a fan favorite for catching screenings before the buzz.
- Date: September 5-15, 2024
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- Who should attend: Film lovers, industry professionals, and anyone wanting to see next year’s Oscar contenders.
- Register or learn more here: tiff.net
4. Venice Film Festival
The world’s oldest film festival, where the magic of cinema meets the timeless beauty of Venice. Expect high-caliber films and directors with a mix of art-house and blockbuster vibes.
- Date: August 28 - September 7, 2024
- Location: Venice, Italy
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, critics, and those who love a touch of history with their cinema.
- Register or learn more here: labiennale.org
5. SXSW Film & TV Festival
Where tech, music, and film collide in one wild, creative ride. This is the place to discover up-and-coming talent in the indie film scene and get in on exclusive screenings and panels.
- Date: March 8-16, 2024
- Location: Austin, Texas
- Who should attend: Indie filmmakers, tech innovators, and anyone who loves pushing the envelope.
- Register or learn more here: sxsw.com
6. Tribeca Film Festival
Founded by Robert De Niro, Tribeca is a cultural hub for film, TV, and immersive media. Expect a mix of art, activism, and some seriously cool premieres.
- Date: June 5-16, 2024
- Location: New York City, New York
- Who should attend: Storytellers, digital creators, and cinephiles.
- Register or learn more here: tribecafilm.com
7. Berlinale - Berlin International Film Festival
Germany’s big cinematic bash, Berlinale is where the indie film world meets critical acclaim. You’ll see films that challenge, provoke, and inspire from across the globe.
- Date: February 15-25, 2024
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Who should attend: Global cinephiles, critics, and filmmakers with a penchant for edgy cinema.
- Register or learn more here: berlinale.de
8. AFI Fest
Run by the American Film Institute, AFI Fest is all about honoring the artistry of cinema. Expect big Hollywood films alongside emerging talent from all corners of the world.
- Date: November 6-10, 2024
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, actors, and Hollywood enthusiasts.
- Register or learn more here: afi.com
9. Edinburgh International Film Festival
The Edinburgh International Film Festival is one of the longest-running film fests globally, known for spotlighting bold, original films from around the world.
- Date: June 19-30, 2024
- Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
- Who should attend: Film students, international filmmakers, and cinephiles who appreciate avant-garde.
- Register or learn more here: edfilmfest.org.uk
10. Fantastic Fest
The go-to for all things weird, wild, and wonderful in genre cinema. If you’re into horror, sci-fi, fantasy, or action films that break boundaries, Fantastic Fest is your jam.
- Date: September 19-26, 2024
- Location: Austin, Texas
- Who should attend: Genre lovers, filmmakers, and anyone with a taste for the unusual.
- Register or learn more here: fantasticfest.com
11. New York Film Festival
One of the most prestigious film events in the U.S., NYFF showcases the best in global cinema with a focus on groundbreaking narratives and documentaries.
- Date: September 27 - October 13, 2024
- Location: New York City, New York
- Who should attend: Film critics, scholars, and anyone with a deep love of cinema’s evolving artistry.
- Register or learn more here: filmlinc.org
12. A24 Film Summit (Speculative)
Not your traditional film fest, but a must for A24 lovers. This is where you can catch panels with the team behind groundbreaking films like Uncut Gems and Midsommar. There’s speculation of a summit for fans, stay tuned!
- Date: TBA
- Location: TBA
- Who should attend: Indie film nerds and A24 die-hards.
- Register or learn more here: a24films.com
Niche film festivals
Let’s dive into the lesser-known, but oh-so-worth-it film festivals and events that only true cinephiles know about. These gems may not have the glam of Cannes, but they pack a punch when it comes to showcasing unique, daring, and under-the-radar films. Ready? Let’s roll the reel on these hidden treasures.
13. Raindance Film Festival
Raindance is the UK’s largest independent film festival, and it’s got that edgy, rebellious indie vibe. It’s where future cult classics get their start, and it’s a hub for filmmakers wanting to break the mold.
- Date: October 23 - November 3, 2024
- Location: London, UK
- Who should attend: Indie filmmakers, scriptwriters, and anyone who loves discovering films before they go mainstream.
- Register or learn more here: raindance.org
14. Slamdance Film Festival
A smaller, edgier cousin of Sundance, Slamdance is where you’ll find some of the most daring, no-budget indie films. It’s for those who thrive on grit, creativity, and a DIY spirit.
- Date: January 19-25, 2024
- Location: Park City, Utah
- Who should attend: Up-and-coming filmmakers, indie film fans, and those looking for boundary-pushing stories.
- Register or learn more here: slamdance.com
15. Fantastic Planet Film Festival
This one’s for sci-fi and fantasy fanatics. Fantastic Planet is a genre film festival that celebrates all things speculative—if it’s got aliens, time travel, or futuristic tech, you’ll find it here.
- Date: November 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- Who should attend: Sci-fi and fantasy lovers, genre filmmakers, and cosplayers.
- Register or learn more here: fantasticplanetfilmfestival.com
16. Annecy International Animation Film Festival
The animation industry’s best-kept secret, Annecy is where you’ll find groundbreaking animated films from around the world. It’s a mix of artistry, technology, and creativity all in one place.
- Date: June 10-15, 2024
- Location: Annecy, France
- Who should attend: Animators, digital artists, and anyone in love with the magic of animation.
- Register or learn more here: annecy.org
17. CPH (Copenhagen International Documentary Film Festival)
This one’s for the doc lovers. CPH
is one of the biggest documentary festivals in the world, featuring a killer selection of films that explore real-world issues in the most creative ways.
- Date: March 13-24, 2024
- Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
- Who should attend: Documentary filmmakers, activists, and anyone with a passion for truth-telling cinema.
- Register or learn more here: cphdox.dk
18. BFI London Film Festival
BFI isn’t just any ol' film festival—this one’s curated with a focus on international, experimental, and indie cinema. Think of it as a more intimate version of TIFF but with a sharper eye on world cinema.
- Date: October 2-13, 2024
- Location: London, UK
- Who should attend: Indie film lovers, international filmmakers, and cinema scholars.
- Register or learn more here: bfi.org.uk
19. Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF)
If you’ve never been down under for a film festival, MIFF is your chance. Australia’s largest film fest, MIFF is where you’ll find a solid mix of indie films, international gems, and groundbreaking Australian cinema.
- Date: August 1-18, 2024
- Location: Melbourne, Australia
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, indie film lovers, and anyone ready for a cinematic adventure in the Southern Hemisphere.
- Register or learn more here: miff.com.au
20. Sitges Film Festival
Horror, thriller, and fantasy buffs—this one's for you! Sitges is the place to catch the best in genre films. From freaky thrillers to spine-chilling horror, Sitges is a paradise for fans of the darker side of cinema.
- Date: October 4-13, 2024
- Location: Sitges, Spain
- Who should attend: Horror fans, thriller aficionados, and filmmakers with a taste for the macabre.
- Register or learn more here: sitgesfilmfestival.com
21. Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF)
Not everyone knows about this gem in Estonia, but trust me, it’s one of the most exciting up-and-coming festivals in Europe. Black Nights showcases international films with a special focus on innovative and bold storytelling.
- Date: November 15 - December 1, 2024
- Location: Tallinn, Estonia
- Who should attend: International filmmakers, avant-garde creators, and anyone with a love for cutting-edge cinema.
- Register or learn more here: poff.ee
22. Göteborg Film Festival
The largest film festival in Scandinavia, Göteborg offers a blend of Nordic films and global indie cinema. It’s the perfect festival if you want to discover fresh talent and unique storytelling from northern Europe.
- Date: January 26 - February 5, 2024
- Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
- Who should attend: Nordic film enthusiasts, international filmmakers, and anyone looking to explore cinema beyond the mainstream.
- Register or learn more here: goteborgfilmfestival.se
23. Busan International Film Festival
As Asia’s premier film event, Busan shines a light on Asian cinema while also welcoming filmmakers from around the world. It’s a hotspot for discovering fresh voices in global cinema.
- Date: October 4-13, 2024
- Location: Busan, South Korea
- Who should attend: Fans of Asian cinema, international film buffs, and industry professionals.
- Register or learn more here: biff.kr
24. Oaxaca FilmFest
This one's a treasure in Mexico! Oaxaca FilmFest focuses on independent films from all over the world, and it’s known for being an intimate yet highly creative festival with a focus on social impact films.
- Date: October 4-10, 2024
- Location: Oaxaca, Mexico
- Who should attend: Independent filmmakers, social impact creators, and anyone looking for a unique film festival experience.
- Register or learn more here: oaxacafilmfest.com
There you have it, the hidden gems of the film world. These festivals are where the magic really happens—whether you're scouting the next A24 darling or diving deep into the art of storytelling, you won’t regret adding these to your calendar.
Film events for networking
There are a few more niche film events and conferences that can help you build connections, prospect talent, or just dive deeper into the film industry—whether you’re attending in person or from the comfort of your home office. These hidden gems are perfect for networking with fellow filmmakers, industry insiders, and emerging talents. Let’s add a few more to your list of must-attend events!
25. NewFilmmakers LA (NFMLA)
NewFilmmakers LA is all about championing new, independent filmmakers. They hold monthly screenings and events that focus on up-and-coming talent. The vibe is super supportive, making it an ideal spot for networking and discovering the next big thing.
- Date: Monthly events (check their website for specific dates)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Emerging filmmakers, casting agents, and anyone looking to connect with fresh talent in indie film.
- Register or learn more here: nfmla.org
26. Catalyst Content Festival
Catalyst is a festival for episodic storytelling across all platforms, from TV to web series. It’s not just about films—it’s about stories in all forms, making it a must if you’re into serialized content. It’s a fantastic place for content creators to network with producers and execs.
- Date: October 9-13, 2024
- Location: Duluth, MN / Online
- Who should attend: Web series creators, episodic writers, TV producers, and content developers.
- Register or learn more here: catalystories.com
27. FilmGate Interactive Media Festival
FilmGate is where immersive storytelling comes to life. This festival explores the intersection of film, tech, and art—think virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive experiences. If you’re looking to dive into future-forward storytelling methods or network with people pushing boundaries, this is your event.
- Date: February 1-5, 2024
- Location: Miami, FL / Online
- Who should attend: Filmmakers interested in tech, VR/AR creators, and innovators in the interactive storytelling space.
- Register or learn more here: filmgate.miami
28. The Media Production & Technology Show (MPTS)
Focused on the behind-the-scenes magic of film and TV, MPTS brings together experts in media production and technology. It’s perfect for filmmakers, producers, and anyone involved in the technical side of filmmaking—lighting, sound, editing, etc. Plus, it’s loaded with networking opportunities.
- Date: May 15-16, 2024
- Location: London, UK / Online
- Who should attend: Media professionals, tech innovators, production crews, and post-production experts.
- Register or learn more here: mediaproductionshow.com
29. Stowe Story Labs
This is more of a screenwriting retreat than a traditional festival, but it’s where aspiring writers go to refine their scripts and make deep connections in the industry. If you’re looking to develop your storytelling and network with other writers and mentors, Stowe is the place to be.
- Date: Multiple Labs in 2024 (check their website for specific dates)
- Location: Stowe, VT / Online
- Who should attend: Screenwriters, script consultants, and filmmakers looking to improve their storytelling chops.
- Register or learn more here: stowestorylabs.org
30. Women in Film Summit (WIF)
WIF’s annual summit is a gathering of powerful women in the film and television industries. It’s all about advocacy, education, and building a supportive network. If you want to connect with industry leaders and creatives pushing for more inclusivity in Hollywood, this summit is a game-changer.
- Date: Summer 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Female filmmakers, producers, writers, and advocates for diversity in the industry.
- Register or learn more here: womeninfilm.org
31. SeriesFest
SeriesFest is a celebration of episodic storytelling, from pilots to web series, and everything in between. It’s designed for creators looking to break into TV and streaming, offering a platform for emerging voices to showcase their projects.
- Date: June 21-26, 2024
- Location: Denver, CO / Online
- Who should attend: TV writers, showrunners, and anyone passionate about serialized content.
- Register or learn more here: seriesfest.com
32. HollyShorts Film Festival
HollyShorts is all about short films, and it’s one of the best spots in LA to catch emerging talent. It’s also an Academy Award-qualifying festival, so the stakes are high! If you’re in the short film game or looking to prospect talented directors and actors, this one is a must-attend.
- Date: August 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Short filmmakers, casting agents, and anyone who loves compact, punchy storytelling.
- Register or learn more here: hollyshorts.com
33. Film Independent Forum
This is the conference for indie filmmakers looking to take their projects to the next level. The Film Independent Forum offers workshops, panels, and networking opportunities that cover everything from financing to distribution. It’s perfect for anyone needing to understand the nuts and bolts of indie filmmaking.
- Date: October 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Indie filmmakers, producers, and anyone trying to navigate the business side of filmmaking.
- Register or learn more here: filmindependent.org
34. Future of Film Summit
This event dives into what’s next for the film industry, with discussions on everything from AI in filmmaking to immersive VR experiences. If you’re curious about how tech is reshaping storytelling, the Future of Film Summit is where you want to be.
- Date: November 2024 (TBA)
- Location: London, UK / Online
- Who should attend: Filmmakers, producers, and tech innovators looking to explore the future of storytelling.
- Register or learn more here: futureoffilm.live
These niche conferences and festivals are not only fantastic for seeing unique films and content but also goldmines for networking and making connections with the next generation of filmmakers, tech innovators, and industry power players.
Film events focused on business, production, and behind the scenes
There are quite a few other industry-related events that are perfect for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve, learn about the latest trends, or dive into what's happening behind the scenes in the film world. These go beyond just film festivals and screenings, offering a chance to learn about distribution, financing, tech, and global industry trends.
Here are some more:
35. NAB Show
The NAB Show is a mecca for all things broadcast, media, and entertainment tech. It’s where industry pros gather to learn about the latest in production, post-production, distribution, and media technology. It’s a great event for filmmakers, tech enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see where the future of content creation is headed.
- Date: April 13-17, 2024
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Who should attend: Media professionals, filmmakers, post-production teams, and tech innovators.
- Register or learn more here: nabshow.com
36. American Film Market (AFM)
AFM is where films get bought, sold, and financed. This event is more business-focused, making it a goldmine for producers, filmmakers, and distribution companies looking to make deals. You’ll find everyone from indie filmmakers to big studios looking to connect.
- Date: November 5-10, 2024
- Location: Santa Monica, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Producers, filmmakers, distributors, sales agents, and financiers.
- Register or learn more here: americanfilmmarket.com
37. IFP Week (Independent Filmmaker Project)
This annual event connects indie filmmakers with industry executives to discuss trends, new projects, and the future of film. It includes screenings, panels, and networking events, making it a great space for emerging talent and established pros alike to collaborate.
- Date: September 2024 (TBA)
- Location: New York, NY
- Who should attend: Independent filmmakers, screenwriters, and producers.
- Register or learn more here: ifp.org
38. The Power of Film Summit
This one-day summit is a deep dive into how storytelling through film can impact society, culture, and policy. It’s perfect for filmmakers interested in using their craft for social good or just learning more about the broader cultural influence of film.
- Date: April 2024 (TBA)
- Location: London, UK / Online
- Who should attend: Documentary filmmakers, activists, and anyone interested in the social impact of film.
- Register or learn more here: thepoweroffilm.org
39. CinemaCon
CinemaCon is where the movie theater industry and film studios converge to talk about the business of getting films into theaters. It’s more of a trade show for exhibitors and studios, but a great place to learn about film releases, box office trends, and how cinema distribution works.
- Date: April 29-May 2, 2024
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Who should attend: Theater owners, studio execs, distributors, and filmmakers focused on theatrical releases.
- Register or learn more here: cinemacon.com
40. World Congress of Science & Factual Producers (WCSFP)
For those in documentary filmmaking or factual content, this conference is a goldmine. WCSFP focuses on science-based programming and factual storytelling. It’s a fantastic place for documentary filmmakers, producers, and factual content creators to network and learn from the best.
- Date: November 19-21, 2024
- Location: Edinburgh, UK
- Who should attend: Documentary filmmakers, factual producers, and broadcasters.
- Register or learn more here: wcsfp.com
41. Realscreen Summit
Realscreen Summit is where the non-fiction film and TV world comes together to network and do business. It’s particularly well-known for being the place to pitch your documentary or non-fiction TV project. You’ll find all the big networks, streaming platforms, and production companies here.
- Date: January 28-31, 2024
- Location: Miami, FL
- Who should attend: Documentary filmmakers, producers, and non-fiction content creators.
- Register or learn more here: realscreen.com
42. Sundance Institute Creative Producing Summit
The Sundance Institute’s annual Creative Producing Summit is designed for indie filmmakers and producers looking to build connections and learn about the evolving landscape of indie film production. It’s an intimate event where indie producers can network and find the resources they need to bring their projects to life.
- Date: July 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Sundance, UT
- Who should attend: Indie producers, filmmakers, and financiers interested in indie film production.
- Register or learn more here: sundance.org
43. Film Finance Forum
If you’re all about the dollars behind film production, this event focuses on how movies get financed, with panels and discussions around new financing models, investment opportunities, and distribution strategies. It’s the perfect place to network with producers and investors.
- Date: March 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Film producers, investors, and anyone in the business of financing movies.
- Register or learn more here: variety.com
44. Hot Docs Forum
Part of the Hot Docs Festival, this forum is a marketplace for documentary filmmakers looking to pitch their projects. It’s a great event for those in the non-fiction space to meet with broadcasters, distributors, and sales agents.
- Date: April 25-May 5, 2024
- Location: Toronto, Canada / Online
- Who should attend: Documentary filmmakers, distributors, and sales agents.
- Register or learn more here: hotdocs.ca
These events give you the inside track on everything from film financing to new distribution models, emerging tech trends, and the future of storytelling. Perfect for anyone looking to sharpen their knowledge of the industry while making some high-value connections!
Events for actors and rising stars
For actors and rising stars looking to break into the industry, hone their craft, or network with casting directors, producers, and other actors, there are some fantastic events and festivals specifically geared toward their needs. These events often combine workshops, panels, and networking opportunities to help up-and-coming actors showcase their talent, gain exposure, and build relationships with industry insiders.
Here are some events and festivals that are perfect for actors and rising stars:
45. Actors Pro Expo
Actors Pro Expo is all about connecting actors with casting directors, agents, and other industry professionals. The event offers workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities, making it the perfect spot for actors to sharpen their skills, learn the business side of acting, and meet key players in the industry.
- Date: February 17, 2024 (New York) and April 2024 (London)
- Location: New York, NY / London, UK / Online
- Who should attend: Aspiring and professional actors looking to connect with casting directors and agents.
- Register or learn more here: actorsproexpo.com
46. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) Rising Stars Program
While TIFF is already a huge event, the Rising Stars Program is a special initiative that focuses specifically on new talent. It gives up-and-coming actors a platform to connect with top industry professionals, including casting agents and directors, while attending workshops and networking events.
- Date: September 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Toronto, Canada
- Who should attend: Emerging actors looking for international exposure and industry connections.
- Register or learn more here: tiff.net
47. Sundance Film Festival Acting Labs
Sundance is known for supporting indie filmmakers, but they also have an incredible series of Acting Labs designed to help actors work on their craft in an intensive, collaborative environment. These labs are immersive and offer a chance for rising stars to connect with directors and producers.
- Date: Various Labs throughout 2024 (check website for exact dates)
- Location: Sundance, UT
- Who should attend: Emerging actors looking to collaborate with indie filmmakers and refine their craft.
- Register or learn more here: sundance.org
48. New York Film Academy (NYFA) Acting Workshops & Masterclasses
NYFA hosts acting workshops and masterclasses with industry professionals, offering everything from on-camera acting to voice work and movement. These workshops are perfect for actors looking to polish their skills and get insider knowledge directly from people working in film and TV.
- Date: Year-round workshops
- Location: New York, NY / Los Angeles, CA / Online
- Who should attend: Actors at all levels looking to improve their craft and gain insights from industry veterans.
- Register or learn more here: nyfa.edu
49. Berlinale Talents
Berlinale Talents is a week-long event during the Berlin International Film Festival, offering workshops, masterclasses, and networking events for emerging actors, writers, and filmmakers. It’s a unique space to develop your craft and connect with international industry leaders.
- Date: February 10-15, 2024
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Who should attend: Emerging actors, filmmakers, and creatives looking for international exposure and opportunities.
- Register or learn more here: berlinale-talents.de
50. Austin Film Festival’s Pitch Competition & Roundtable
Actors can benefit from Austin Film Festival’s Pitch Competition and Roundtable events, which are great places to meet writers, directors, and producers. It’s an ideal space for actors to network, hear about upcoming projects, and potentially land roles in indie productions.
- Date: October 24-31, 2024
- Location: Austin, TX
- Who should attend: Actors looking to network with screenwriters, filmmakers, and producers.
- Register or learn more here: austinfilmfestival.com
51. Actorfest
Actorfest is a full-day event that brings together actors with casting directors, agents, and industry experts. The event offers seminars, panels, and workshops that cover everything from how to get an agent to audition techniques and the business side of acting.
- Date: October 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / New York, NY
- Who should attend: Aspiring and professional actors looking to connect with casting directors and agents.
- Register or learn more here: actorfest.com
52. The Hollywood Talent Summit
The Hollywood Talent Summit is focused on helping actors, writers, and creators navigate Hollywood. It offers panels with talent agents, casting directors, and industry professionals, giving actors the chance to learn about the inner workings of the industry and how to succeed.
- Date: May 2024 (TBA)
- Location: Hollywood, CA
- Who should attend: Actors, writers, and content creators interested in learning about Hollywood’s talent pipeline.
- Register or learn more here: hollywoodtalentsummit.com
53. Raindance Acting & Filmmaking Workshops
Raindance hosts acting and filmmaking workshops year-round, helping actors refine their on-camera skills, learn the business of acting, and get tips on how to audition effectively. The workshops are led by industry professionals, and the atmosphere is incredibly supportive.
- Date: Year-round workshops
- Location: London, UK / Online
- Who should attend: Actors at all stages of their careers looking for hands-on training and industry insights.
- Register or learn more here: raindance.org
54. Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) Foundation Workshops
SAG-AFTRA offers members free workshops and educational programs on everything from audition techniques to career management. These workshops are a must for actors looking to improve their skills and build connections within the acting community.
- Date: Ongoing workshops
- Location: Los Angeles, CA / New York, NY / Online
- Who should attend: SAG-AFTRA members and emerging actors looking to improve their craft.
- Register or learn more here: sagaftra.foundation
These events are ideal for actors who want to elevate their careers, gain exposure, and make valuable industry connections!
Planning your film festival event calendar
Before choosing which film festival you want to attend, get ready to do a lot of research, planning, and strategizing.
What is it that you want to get out of each film festival? Do you want to learn about the latest indie films or trends? Or are you looking to network with other aspiring actors or filmmakers and build your reputation in the industry among other film professionals?
Whatever your goal is, make sure to do your research beforehand.
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