Carmel is an idyllic little hamlet by the sea with world famous white sand beaches, a quaint European-inspired downtown shopping district, renowned restaurants and hotels. So it stands to reason that Carmel would also be home to an international film festival. Screening over 125 films in unique and beautiful venues over five days, the festival is quickly becoming a cultural phenomenon on the West Coast and beyond. Few places on Earth compare to the natural beauty and sophistication of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel International Film Festival is held throughout the city of Carmel-by-the-Sea and surrounding towns. Some of the venues include: The Sunset Cultural Arts Center, Golden Bough Theater, Cherry Center for the Arts, Carmel Youth Center Theater, Carmel Youth Center Auditorium, Carmel High School Performing Art Center, Carmel Beach, Devendorf Park and 13th Avenue Beach.
Estimated attendance 2016: 24,000 people
Carmel International Film Festival attracts a diverse group of attendees and filmmakers, from emerging artists to Oscar Award-winning. If you are an art lover of any sort, you will find something at this festival for you. And chances are, you will come across someone you know.
The Carmel International Film Festival presents four awards at the festival in October: Best Feature, Best Documentary, Best Short and Best Student film.