The City Different gets its nickname for the many unique and sometimes bizarre things to see and do around town. From the famous adobe architecture to the handful of art museums featuring local sculptures, paintings, and artifacts, there’s always something showcasing our culture and spirit. If you’re in town during the beginning of October, the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the burgeoning cinematic arts scene here in the city. A hodgepodge of incredible Indie films is at the ready to take in and enjoy, whether you’re a cinephile or a casual movie enthusiast.
For more fun events and things to do around Santa Fe, request our free Vacation Guide! It’s full of restaurants, attractions, and activities in an easy-to-read list of our favorites.
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Your Guide to the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival
Santa Fe Independent Film Festival Origins
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival is a fun and exciting celebration of small-market cinema that is a highlight within the community. Each year, we see more and more success drawing huge crowds of locals and visitors alike. The festival began back in 2009 as a fringe event in the community center, and just two years later, it’s the largest showing of its kind in all of New Mexico, screening over 100 films.
Recognized nationally as a young Sundance, the festival is one of the top annual events in the Land of Enchantment. Sold-out screenings and increasing popularity put the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival on the national radar, and it continues to grow every year. Along with film showcases, the festival organizes social events among industry professionals and local filmmakers as well as some fantastic parties to celebrate their success.
When Is It?
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival brings five days of exciting filmmaking to the City Different from October 16th through the 20th. This is one of the best times to visit our Northern New Mexico oasis. The weather is excellent this time of the year. Temperatures average out in the mid-50s to the mid-70s, and there is very little rain. This is also the offseason for tourists so you’ll encounter smaller crowds, which is also a fantastic perk if you want to explore the city. Rates and prices also drop across the city, so you don’t have to burn a hole in your wallet to have a good time.
Where Is It?
The Santa Fe Independent Film Festival takes place at a handful of theaters across the town. Each of the venues ranges from small art theaters to larger silver screen showings. Here is a list of the theaters in Santa Fe:
- Violet Crown
- Lensic Performing Arts Center
- Jean Cocteau Cinema
- Center for Contemporary Arts
- The Screen
Book Your Santa Fe Vacation
Searching for an authentic place to stay in the City Different? Look no further than Four Kachinas Inn. Our beautiful Inn offers a collection of rooms featuring Southwestern decor and local furnishings, all just steps away from the heart of Santa Fe. You can easily spend the day walking around town without having to drive or deal with that pesky parking near Santa Fe Plaza. Check out some of our favorite points of interest as well as a handful of hidden gems around the city!
Start planning your Santa Fe getaway today by booking your room with us. We look forward to welcoming you to our Northern New Mexico oasis.
