The Simi Valley Film Festival 2026, officially known as SIMI Film Fest, returns to Simi Valley, California, from September 12 through September 20, 2026. The nine-day celebration of independent cinema brings together filmmakers, actors, composers, music artists, industry professionals and movie fans for an extensive lineup of screenings, special events, panels, networking opportunities and awards.
According to the festival, SIMI Film Fest 2026 features 102 films and 57 music videos, making this year's event one of the most ambitious editions in the festival's history. The program includes feature films, short films, documentaries, youth films, music videos and a special focus on the craft of filmmaking.
Photo by Denise Jans on Unsplash
Simi Valley Film Festival 2026 Dates and Location
SIMI Film Fest 2026 takes place September 12–20, 2026, in Simi Valley, California. The festival's primary screening experience is centered around Studio Movie Grill, where audiences can enjoy films in a theater environment designed for a premium viewing experience.
The nine-day festival gives visitors plenty of opportunities to discover independent filmmakers and experience a wide variety of cinematic styles. In addition to movie screenings, SIMIFF 2026 features special programs throughout the festival, including music video events, youth filmmaking, industry panels, field trips and a live film music concert.
For visitors traveling to the festival, Simi Valley also offers restaurants, outdoor recreation, historic locations and other attractions that make it easy to turn a film festival visit into a Southern California getaway.
What to Expect at SIMI Film Fest 2026
The Simi Valley Film Festival 2026 is designed to celebrate more than just the finished movie. SIMI Film Fest places a strong emphasis on the many creative professionals who bring a production to life, including actors, directors, cinematographers, editors, composers, writers, production designers, costume professionals, sound artists and visual effects teams.
The 2026 festival recognizes films across a wide range of genres, including:
- Drama
- Comedy
- Horror
- Thriller
- Documentary
- Animation
- Science fiction
- Experimental film
- Magical realism
- Youth filmmaking
- Music videos
With films and creative projects coming from filmmakers around the world, SIMI Film Fest provides audiences with an opportunity to discover stories and filmmaking voices they may not encounter through mainstream movie releases.
New for the Simi Valley Film Festival 2026: SIMIFF Jury Prize
One of the major additions to SIMIFF 2026 is the new SIMIFF Jury Prize. The award is designed to recognize one standout film selected by an independent panel of industry judges.
The winner receives a three-month mentorship with Matt Smith, an agent at Creative Artists Agency (CAA). According to the festival, the mentorship is intended to provide practical guidance involving career strategy, representation, project positioning and future opportunities.
The new Jury Prize gives SIMI Film Fest an additional way to support filmmakers beyond festival recognition and awards. It also reinforces the festival's emphasis on helping independent filmmakers take the next step in their careers.
SIMI Film Fest Film Music Competition and Concert
Music is a major part of the 2026 Simi Valley Film Festival. This year's festival introduces a new film music competition that gives composers an opportunity to have their work performed live by an orchestra.
The SIMI Film Fest Film Music Concert is scheduled for September 16, 2026. The concert features iconic film music alongside original compositions from the next generation of film composers. The program includes music associated with films such as E.T., Harry Potter, Dances with Wolves, The Lord of the Rings, Star Trek and Mission: Impossible.
The concert will also showcase original scores connected to films screening during SIMI Film Fest 2026, providing audiences with a unique opportunity to experience film music performed live.
Four Experiences Within SIMI Film Fest
SIMI Film Fest 2026 is more than a traditional movie festival. The 2026 program brings together several distinct experiences throughout the nine-day celebration.
SIMI Film Fest
The main festival runs from September 12–20 and features selected feature-length and short films representing filmmakers from around the world.
SIMI Music Video Fest
The Music Video Fest takes place September 12 and 13 and highlights filmmakers and musicians using visual storytelling to complement original music.
SIMI Youth Film Fest
Young filmmakers receive their own dedicated spotlight during the festival. The Youth Film Fest is scheduled for Sunday, September 13, celebrating emerging filmmakers and their creative work.
Film Music Concert
On Wednesday, September 16, the festival turns its attention to the music behind the movies with a live orchestral concert featuring iconic film scores and new compositions from the film music competition.
Film Screenings, Panels and Filmmaker Events
For movie fans, one of the biggest attractions of SIMIFF is the opportunity to see independent films on the big screen. The festival also creates opportunities to meet filmmakers and learn more about the creative and business sides of filmmaking.
Festival programming includes industry panels, filmmaker networking, Q&A opportunities and field trips. These events can provide audiences with insight into how movies are made while giving filmmakers opportunities to connect with other creative professionals.
The festival also highlights the craft behind filmmaking, recognizing achievements in areas that can include acting, directing, cinematography, editing, sound, music, writing, production design, costumes, locations, visual effects and other aspects of production.
2026 SIMIFF Awards and Recognition
Awards are an important part of the Simi Valley Film Festival experience. SIMI Film Fest says its 2026 program includes more than 27 award categories, giving filmmakers opportunities to be recognized for individual creative and technical achievements.
The 2026 nominees include filmmakers and performers competing in categories such as Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Originality/Creativity, Best Location, Best Ensemble Cast, Best Orchestral Score and Best Non-Orchestral Score.
The festival's awards celebration is scheduled for September 20, 2026, when winning films and filmmakers will be honored.
Why Attend the Simi Valley Film Festival?
Whether you are an independent filmmaker, serious movie fan or simply looking for an interesting Southern California event, SIMI Film Fest 2026 offers several reasons to attend.
- Discover independent films from filmmakers around the world.
- Meet directors, actors, writers, composers and other members of the filmmaking community.
- Experience live film music performed by an orchestra.
- Explore Simi Valley while attending the festival.
- Attend industry events and learn about filmmaking and the entertainment business.
- Support independent filmmakers and emerging creative talent.
Simi Valley Film Festival Tickets
Tickets are available for SIMI Film Fest screenings and events through the festival's official ticketing page. Visitors can browse individual screenings and special events to build their own festival schedule.
The festival recommends checking the official schedule for the latest screening times, event information and ticket availability.
BUY SIMI FILM FEST 2026 TICKETS
Plan Your Simi Valley Film Festival Visit
If you are traveling to Simi Valley for SIMIFF, consider making the festival part of a longer local getaway. Simi Valley offers hiking trails, restaurants, historic sites and locations connected to the region's long relationship with film and television production.
The combination of independent cinema, networking, industry events, live music and local attractions makes the Simi Valley Film Festival 2026 a standout cultural event in Ventura County.
Whether you are attending one screening or planning to experience several days of the festival, SIMI Film Fest offers a chance to discover new films, meet creative professionals and enjoy the unique atmosphere of an independent film festival in Southern California.
VISIT THE OFFICIAL SIMI FILM FEST WEBSITE
Frequently Asked Questions About the Simi Valley Film Festival 2026
When is the Simi Valley Film Festival 2026?
The Simi Valley Film Festival 2026, also known as SIMI Film Fest 2026, takes place September 12–20, 2026, in Simi Valley, California.
What is the Simi Valley Film Festival called?
The festival is officially known as SIMI Film Fest. It is commonly searched for as the Simi Valley Film Festival, Simi Film Fest or SIMIFF.
Where is SIMI Film Fest 2026 held?
SIMI Film Fest 2026 is held in Simi Valley, California, with film screenings and festival programming centered around Studio Movie Grill and other festival venues.
How many films are being shown at SIMI Film Fest 2026?
The 2026 festival features 102 films along with 57 music videos, according to the festival's published 2026 program information.
What types of films are shown at the Simi Valley Film Festival?
SIMI Film Fest features a broad selection of independent cinema, including feature films, short films, documentaries, dramas, comedies, horror, thrillers, animation, science fiction, experimental films, youth films and other genres.
Does SIMI Film Fest have events besides movie screenings?
Yes. The Simi Valley Film Festival includes special events such as filmmaker Q&A sessions, industry panels, networking opportunities, field trips, music video programming, youth filmmaking events and a live film music concert.
Is there a youth film festival at SIMIFF?
Yes. SIMI Youth Film Fest is part of the 2026 festival and provides a dedicated opportunity to showcase and celebrate young filmmakers and their work.
Does the Simi Valley Film Festival have a film music event?
Yes. SIMI Film Fest 2026 includes a Film Music Competition and a live Film Music Concert scheduled for September 16, 2026. The program combines recognizable movie music with original compositions from emerging film composers.
What is the SIMIFF Jury Prize?
The SIMIFF Jury Prize is a new 2026 award recognizing a standout film selected by an independent panel of industry judges. The winning filmmaker receives a three-month mentorship with Matt Smith, an agent at Creative Artists Agency.
Where can I buy Simi Valley Film Festival 2026 tickets?
Tickets and festival event information are available through the official SIMI Film Fest website. Check the festival's ticketing page for current availability, screening information and event details.
Why should I attend the Simi Valley Film Festival?
SIMI Film Fest is an opportunity to discover independent films, meet filmmakers and other entertainment professionals, attend special events and experience a major celebration of cinema in Simi Valley. It is also a great way to explore Ventura County while supporting independent filmmaking.
Where can I find more events in Simi Valley, Ventura County or nationally?
In addition to SIMI Film Fest, you can find concerts, festivals, community events, entertainment and other activities throughout the region & nationally in the In 805 events section.
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Updated & published September 6, 2026, In 805 Media (in805.com)