Sunday, November 8, 2026
Marriott Coronado Island Resort & Marina
We're taking closing night to the Bay — an unforgettable evening under the stars with the sparkling skyline of downtown San Diego as your backdrop.
This year, we're doing something we've never done before. CIFF's beloved closing night reception moves to the stunning waterfront setting of the Marriott Coronado Island Resort & Marina — where the bay stretches out before you, the city skyline glitters across the water, and the open air makes every moment feel just a little more cinematic.
Reception on the Bay
6:00–7:30 PM
Join us as we raise a glass to an unforgettable five days of film, storytelling, and connection at the Closing Night Reception, hosted in a beautiful new setting at the Coronado Marriott Resort & Marina.
Gather for a gorgeous waterfront reception as the sun sets over San Diego Bay. Sip, mingle, and soak in the views—the kind of golden-hour moment that reminds us why we love gathering around great films and great company. With the downtown skyline shimmering across the water and the warm November air all around, it's the perfect prelude to one final night of cinema.
As the Festival draws to a close, celebrate with filmmakers, industry guests, sponsors, and fellow film lovers while reflecting on the moments, conversations, and discoveries that made this year's experience so memorable. Reconnect with new friends, share favorite films and festival highlights, and enjoy one last opportunity to experience the camaraderie and magic that define the Coronado Island Film Festival.
Following the reception, continue your Closing Night experience with one of two featured screenings. Guests may remain at the Marriott for a special Closing Night presentation or make their way to the Village Theater for an alternate Closing Night feature.
Whether you've attended one film or dozens, the Closing Night Reception is a chance to celebrate the stories that moved us, the artists who inspired us, and the community that comes together each year to honor the power of cinema.
Join us as we toast another remarkable Coronado Island Film Festival and look ahead to the stories still to come.
From the bay to the big screen — guests will move inside for our closing night film in the warm, intimate theater space at the Marriott. The film will be announced closer to the event, but one thing is certain: it will be a worthy finale to five days of extraordinary cinema.
HAROLD!
He was the Founding Father of Romantic Comedy.
He was the King of Boy-Chases-Girl Cinema Thrills.
He was the Clock-Climbing Superstar from San Diego.
He was Harold Lloyd — and he's coming to Coronado in November!
Come catch HAROLD! at CIFF.
Featuring his granddaughter, Suzanne Lloyd, Hollywood legend Leonard Maltin, and a fully-restored Harold Lloyd masterpiece.
Check back for reservation details.
Saturday, November 7, 2026 | 4:00-6:00PM
The Bower Hotel | Orange Avenue
Limited Passes | Open Benefactors | Reservations for badge holders will open soon.
Be a Part of the Action
From 4:00–6:00 PM on Saturday, November 7, guests will embark on a flavorful stroll down Orange Avenue, where each star on the sidewalk honors an individual with real ties to Coronado's rich film and cultural history.
Lights. Camera. Taste
Your evening begins at The Bower Coronado, where you'll check in, receive your exclusive StarPass, and kick off the experience with a welcome drink and bite.
Your StarPass serves as your guide for the evening, featuring a map of every participating stop so you can explore the full tasting trail at your own pace.
From there, stroll down Orange Avenue as each stop offers a unique bite, sip, or special experience from one of Coronado's favorite local businesses. Between tastings, take in the stories behind the legendary names embedded in the Avenue of the Stars—celebrating the actors, filmmakers, writers, and visionaries who helped shape Coronado's remarkable connection to Hollywood.
As the sun begins to set, Scenes & Sips transforms into more than a tasting event—it's a celebration of film, community, local flavor, and the timeless charm that makes Coronado one of California's most iconic destinations.
Scenes & Sips is made possible by the generous support of our host sponsors.
Reserve Your StarPass
Your festival badge unlocks access but your reservation secures your place.
Because of the intimate nature of this progressive tasting experience, attendance is limited and available exclusively to Festival Badge Holders. Scenes & Sips has quickly become one of the festival's signature events and is expected to sell out.
Reserve your complimentary StarPass today and join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating Coronado's cinematic history, exceptional local cuisine, and vibrant community.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
The Garden & The Crown Room at the Iconic Hotel Del Coronado
5:30 PM Hosted Champagne Reception and Red Carpet
7:00 PM Dinner & Awards Presentation
9:00 PM AfterParty & Dancing
The Coronado Island Film Festival’s most glamorous evening returns as we celebrate our 11th Anniversary with the Leonard Maltin Industry Tribute Awards Gala. This unforgettable evening honors the creative forces—both above and below the line—who have elevated the art and science of cinematic storytelling.
Festival Host and Honorary Jury President Leonard Maltin, one of the most respected film critics and historians, will preside over the night’s tributes, engaging honorees in thoughtful onstage conversations as they accept their awards.
The evening begins with a golden-hour sunset champagne reception on the Garden Terrace, sparkling conversation, and our signature red carpet and step & repeat. As the sun sets, the celebration moves inside to the historic Crown Room, a venue that has welcomed presidents, movie stars, and royalty since 1888, for an elegant dinner and awards presentation. Surrounded by soaring architecture and timeless charm, we will spotlight visionary individuals whose artistry, music, cinematography, cultural impact, and legacy have inspired audiences and defined generations of cinematic storytelling.
As the formal program concludes, the festivities continue with the Industry Tribute Wrap Party. The ballroom dance floor opens as the DJ turns up the music, offering the perfect finale to a night of glamour, celebration, and cinematic excellence.
This year, as CIFF marks a decade of storytelling magic, we look forward to celebrating new luminaries whose contributions continue to inspire and enchant audiences worldwide.
VARIETY MAGAZINE | 
DEADLINE MAGAZINE | 
Enjoy a flavorful walking tour down Orange Avenue celebrating Coronado’s cinematic legacy. Guests will receive a CinePass for tastings from local restaurants and shops, plus a free tour of the Coronado Historical Association’s special D-Day tribute. Stroll among the stars honoring Coronado’s film history and soak in an evening of community, cuisine, and cinematic charm.
OPENING NIGHT! Badge Holders Only
RED CARPET 5:30 | DOORS OPEN AT 6:00
Champagne & Specialty Cocktails by:
Dead Man's Wire is a 2025 American historical crime film directed by Gus Van Sant, written by Austin Kolodney, based on the true story of kidnapping by Tony Kiritsis in the 1970s. It stars Bill Skarsgård, Dacre Montgomery, Colman Domingo, Myha'la, Cary Elwes, John Robinson, and Al Pacino.
The film had its world premiere out of competition in the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 2, 2025
"Scripted with fat-free economy by Austin Kolodney and made in the gritty, realistic style of Sidney Lumet’s ‘70s thrillers, the film pays tribute to Dog Day Afternoon while carving its own identity." - David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter
AFTER PARTY
The celebration doesn’t stop when the credits roll! Badge holders are invited to an exclusive Private Opening Night After Party at The Tavern. Savor handcrafted cocktails, indulge in delectable passed bites, and dance the night away as DJ TeeLynn keeps the energy alive.
This is the can’t-miss gathering to toast the start of the festival, connect with fellow film lovers, and celebrate in true CIFF style.
Be sure to pick up your wristband at Opening Night check-in for entry to this unforgettable evening!
Celebrate the legacy of The Beatles with a one-of-a-kind event in Coronado!
Join us for an unforgettable afternoon filled with rare memorabilia, film tributes, and expert insights as we honor the 60th anniversary of The Beatles’ legendary San Diego concert and the cinematic milestone of HELP! — all culminating in a special SiriusXM-hosted documentary conversation with Sir Paul McCartney. Historian and CIFF Program partner, Tim Reid has once again delivered a tremendous event that weaves Coronado/San Diego history with Hollywood and celebrity moments celebrating the rich legacy that defines our City.
Beatlemania Comes to Coronado!
Saturday, November 8, 2025
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Coronado Performing Arts Center
Pre-Show Events | 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
THIS EVENT IS INCLUDED WITH ALL BADGES, BENEFACTORS + MEMBERSHIP LEVELS. You must sign-in and reserve to guarantee a seat.
Guests are invited to explore Chuck Gunderson’s Beatles memorabilia exhibit in the lobby, featuring rare items from the 1965 Balboa Stadium show. Simultaneously, early Beatles music will play inside the auditorium as guests are seated.
Program Overview
Leonard Maltin opens the program and introduces the day’s special guests: Tom Frangione, Natalie Palumbo, Chuck Gunderson, and Bruce Spizer. The event continues with a multimedia retrospective by Chuck Gunderson celebrating the Beatles' 1965 San Diego concert, followed by Bruce Spizer’s cinematic tribute to the 60th anniversary of HELP!.
SiriusXM Presents Documentary: Tug of War | 2:40 PM
A special documentary conversation with Sir Paul McCartney, hosted by Tom Frangione of The Beatles Channel. This exclusive segment explores the stories behind McCartney’s work and legacy.
Closing Conversation
The afternoon concludes with a Q&A featuring Leonard Maltin, Tom Frangione, and Natalie Palumbo.
(reminder: badge holders sign-in to reserve)
Celebrate all of our 2024 independent film, filmmakers and screenwriters!
The CIFF esteemed Jury members will announce the winners of this year’s categories.
All filmmakers and screenwriters are invited and encouraged to attend.
Badge-holder only event.
Reservations required / limited space / first come basis
Open to all badge holders!
Stop by and enjoy happy hour with fellow attendees, filmmakers and industry guests before heading off to watch your evening film!
The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) welcomes makers and lovers of film from all over the world to the storied seaside village of Coronado, California to celebrate the magical art of visual storytelling. Coronado’s enduring love affair with Hollywood began more than a century ago.