Newport Beach Film Festival
The 27th Annual Newport Beach Film Festival takes place October 15–22, 2026. The eight-day festival brings more than 300 feature and short films from over 50 countries to Orange County, along with screenings, filmmaker events, receptions and cultural programming.
Throughout the rest of the year, NBFF hosts screenings, industry events and awards programs spotlighting independent and international filmmakers.
Newport Beach Film Festival
Dates: October 15–22, 2026
Locations: Screenings and events take place at venues around Newport Beach. Festival venues have included Fashion Island’s THE LOT, Regal Edwards Big Newport and Starlight Cinemas. Check the official 2026 schedule for the venue assigned to each screening or event.
NewportBeachFilmFest.com
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Opening Night
Premier Screening
2026 TBA
Opening Night Gala
Thursday, October 15, 2026 — Regal Edwards Big Newport + Fashion Island gala. Culinary partners and entertainment details will be added as announced by the Festival.
Fashion Island Main Stage events
Friday, October 16–Sunday, October 18, 2026
Closing Night
Premier Screening
2026 TBA
Details for the 2026 Closing Night celebration, including the location, food and beverage offerings and entertainment, will be added when announced by the Festival.
NBFF Film Programs
Newport Beach Film Festival screenings are open to the public, though parental discretion is advised. Some parties, receptions and gala events have separate age requirements.
- Action Sports Films
- Art, Architecture & Design
- Collegiate
- Culinary
- Documentaries
- Environmental
- Family
- International Spotlights
- Music
- Narratives
- Shorts
- Centerpiece
- LGBTQ+
Newport Beach Film Festival Tickets
2026 passes and tickets are on sale. Check the official Newport Beach Film Festival website for current ticket and pass availability.
Ticket availability, pass benefits and purchase options can vary by screening and event. Check the official NBFF schedule and ticketing pages before attending.
NBFF-produced parties, receptions and galas that begin after 5 PM are strictly 21 and over. Regular screenings are open to the public, subject to the Festival’s rules for minors and individual film content.
Newport Beach Film Festival Volunteer & Internship
The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) is a nonprofit organization that offers volunteer opportunities each year. Visit the official volunteer page for current opportunities and application information.
Internship opportunities may also be offered by the Festival. Check the official NBFF website for current openings and application information before applying.
Where to Stay for the Newport Beach Film Festival
The VEA Newport Beach, Balboa Bay Resort, Pelican Hill, Marriott Bayview, Lido House Hotel and the Marriott Newport Villas are local hotel options to consider.
See also our guide to Newport Beach Hotels.
Planning Your Visit
Festival screenings and special events take place at multiple Newport Beach venues. Check your individual ticket for the correct location and arrival time, and review age requirements before purchasing tickets for parties, receptions or gala events.
Updated September 2026. The film lineup, special events, ticket prices and additional 2026 details will be updated as they are announced.
Explore more local planning resources in our Newport Beach guide, things to do in Newport Beach, Newport Beach hotels and Orange County fairs and festivals guide.
