Experience an Award-Winning Film Festival in Gilroy

Lights, camera, action! The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival (PJIFF) is set to return from April 9-16, 2025, bringing another incredible lineup of films, industry panels, and cultural experiences to southern Santa Clara and San Benito counties, including Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Martin, Hollister, and San Juan Bautista. Recognized as one of MovieMaker Magazine's 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World in 2024, PJIFF continues to be a must-attend event for filmmakers and cinephiles alike.

Experience the Charm of Gilroy During PJIFF

Proudly hosting festival events for over a decade, Gilroy offers festivalgoers not just world-class cinema but a taste of authentic California culture. Between screenings, explore Gilroy's historic downtown district with its charming architecture, local boutiques, and rich heritage. The city's hospitality shines through its diverse culinary scene – sample local favorites on Gilroy's popular Ale and Taco Trails, showcasing the craft breweries and authentic taquerias in Gilroy. After a day of inspiring films and engaging panel discussions, unwind at one of Gilroy's taprooms, where filmmakers and attendees often gather for lively conversations about the day's screenings.

Festival Tip:

For the full experience, the annual POPPY BASH at Capos Event Center on Friday night is a must-attend celebration, with the Icon Awards and performances by visiting industry stars.

A Festival with a Mission

With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, PJIFF provides a platform for underrepresented voices, celebrating people of color, women, and marginalized storytellers in cinema. The 2025 festival will feature:

  • Over 300 films from 40 countries
  • More than 600 filmmakers in attendance
  • 8 panel discussions featuring 36 industry professionals

This makes 2025 one of the most exciting years yet for this growing festival.

Spotlight on Industry Leaders

PJIFF is thrilled to welcome back John Fitzgerald, co-founder of Slamdance, AFI, and the Santa Barbara Film Festivals. Returning this year is Festival Formula, a leading expert in film festival strategy, offering insights and networking opportunities for filmmakers.

Throughout the week, attendees can engage with industry professionals including:

  • Randy Spendlove - Gilroy native and President of Paramount Music
  • Doeri Welch - Lead Recruiter for Walt Disney Imagineering

Festival Highlights in Gilroy

Opening Ceremony & Youth Showcase (April 9, Gavilan College, Gilroy)

The festival proudly opens at Gilroy's own Gavilan College, highlighting the deep connection between the festival and local education. This showcase of student filmmakers features talented youth from local high schools and colleges. The opening ceremony will include:

  • A moving performance by Angels on Stage, a theater group that empowers individuals with disabilities
  • A keynote presentation by Michelle Schaefer, a deaf filmmaker, on authentic casting and representation in film
  • A special performance by The South Bay Singers contemporary choir group
The Poppy Bash & Icon Awards (April 11, CAPOS, Gilroy)

Gilroy's downtown CAPOS Event Center will transform into the festival's most glamorous setting for this high-energy celebration honoring industry legends with the prestigious Icon Awards. Special guests include:

  • Jeffrey Babko - 22-year veteran of the Jimmy Kimmel Show who performs with Steve Martin and Martin Short
  • Robert Berry - Formerly with the Greg Kihn Band and Hush
  • Randy Spendlove - Paramount Music executive and Gilroy native

If you attend one party all year, THIS IS IT! Rock out with live music and industry legends, and experience why Gilroy has become known for hosting some of the region's most exciting cultural events.

Saturday Morning Cartoons - Animated Films & Business Panel (April 12, The District, Gilroy)

Start the weekend at The District in downtown Gilroy, where families and animation enthusiasts of all ages can gather for Saturday Morning Cartoons, a showcase of animated films. Stay for "Industry Insiders," an insightful panel discussion before the continuation of film screenings all day long.

VIP Filmmaker Lounge in Downtown Gilroy (VIP Pass exclusive)

Downtown Gilroy will buzz with creative energy as renowned local artist Ignacio "Nacho" Moya opens his amazing art studio and gallery as the VIP Filmmaker Lounge. Surrounded by Nacho's distinctive artwork that reflects Gilroy's unique cultural heritage, this exclusive space will serve as the festival's networking hub.

Don't miss this chance to meet the artist behind the official PJIFF poster art and maybe take home a signed poster! Take this opportunity to meet filmmakers and see art by "Nacho" Moya up close and personal in one of Gilroy's most inspiring creative spaces.

Live Music and Open Mic at Tempo Kitchen & Bar (April 12, Gilroy)

Music and film intersect at this special Kalamazoo Gals "Special Feature" concert at Gilroy's beloved Tempo Kitchen & Bar. This unique event will feature two rare Banner Gibsons—guitars once carried by U.S. soldiers during WWII—offering festival attendees an only-in-Gilroy experience combining cinema, history, and live performance.

Don't miss the Film Festival feature, "The Kalamazoo Gals" screening at Cura Contemporary on April 13th.

Beyond Gilroy: Other Festival Highlights
"Mexico y Tú!" Day (April 14, San Juan Bautista & Hollister)

A full day dedicated to Mexican heritage, this event will honor:

  • Ignacio Gomez - Celebrated Zoot Suit and sculpture artist
  • Daniel Valdez - Music Director for the stage and film adaptation Zoot Suit
  • Consuelo Alba - Executive Director of the Watsonville Film Festival and award-winning documentary filmmaker

Four Film Blocks across two cities will be followed by a highly anticipated Panel Discussion and Awards Ceremony at the Granada Theater in Hollister.

VIP Winery Tours (April 15-16, Various Locations – VIP Pass Exclusive)

Savor the flavor of local wine! Guided winery tours will take guests to:

  • Sarah's Vineyard
  • Moose Mountain
  • Lightpost Winery
  • DeRose Winery
  • Calera Winery

These tours offer a perfect blend of film and fine wine for VIP pass holders.

Closing Ceremony (April 16, Hollister)

The festival will conclude with the feature film "The Way We Speak" starring Patrick Fabian, best known for his role in the hit show, Better Call Saul. In attendance will be the Director, Editor and Cinematographer of the film. The evening will also feature the announcement of the audience awards, bringing the festival to an exciting close.

Make Gilroy Your Festival Headquarters

With its central location, abundant accommodations, and welcoming atmosphere, Gilroy offers the perfect base for your PJIFF experience. Enjoy the thrills of events and film screenings that span 5 cities over 8 days while making the most of your getaway – stay in one of Gilroy's comfortable hotels and enjoy easy access to all festival venues across the region.

When you're not watching films, Gilroy's attractions provide the perfect complement to your festival experience:

  • Wine Tasting: Sample award-winning wines of vineyards in and around Gilroy, serving locally made wine and some live music events too!
  • Dining: Explore the culinary delights of Gilroy's restaurants, offering cuisines to satisfy every palate.
  • Local Shopping: Browse unique shops in Gilroy's historic downtown district. Take home a souvenir from a specialty boutique, antique store, or find local goods from the Cannery Marketplace.
  • Thrills for all ages: Experience the one-of-a-kind Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, with theme park rides, beautiful gardens, and world-famous Circus Trees.
  • Retail Therapy: Shop name brands and outlet deals at the Gilroy Premium Outlets and find unique souvenirs in the California Welcome Center, next to American Eagle.

Experience the Magic of the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival

With its diverse programming, world-class networking opportunities, and Gilroy's warm hospitality, the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival continues to make a lasting impact on the film industry and local communities. Whether you're here for the films, the discussions, or the unforgettable atmosphere, this festival is one you won't want to miss. Stay in Gilroy and make it your hub for films, events, wineries, our famous Taco Trail and Ale Trail! For tickets, the full schedule, and the latest updates, visit the PJIFF official website.

See you at the movies!