The Frida Cinema is Orange County’s only nonprofit independent cinema. On-site programming prioritizes newly released independent and international films, curated film series, and restored classics. Outdoor cinema programs focus on primarily free screenings of classic, family, and genre films. Many film screenings also include additional multi-disciplinary companion arts programs including discussions with filmmakers, musical performances, dance, and shadow cast performances. Throughout the year, The Frida also hosts special programming, including programming to engage under-served audiences. More than 60,000 people attend programs annually.

The Frida has a strong history of producing diverse arts programs in order to provide accessible, culturally-affirming screenings, exhibitions, and arts fairs to a diverse constituency of residents and visitors. Core audiences primarily reside in Orange County and consist of film enthusiasts of all ages, as well as audiences who attend programming based on the personal, cultural, or thematic significance of individual film or other arts programs. The organization offers specialized programming for various ages, cultural groups, and audiences to engage and support as many communities as possible in accessing high quality arts programming.

In addition to screening films on-site at its two auditorium cinema, The Frida also hosts film screenings throughout the community through pop-up and outdoor cinema programs using state of the art audio visual equipment. In 2023, The Frida began producing Santa Ana’s monthly arts festival DTSA First Saturday ArtWalk (ArtWalk). This event, which has taken place monthly for more than 20 years, welcomes more than 4,000 attendees each event to tour more than one dozen area galleries and arts organizations, supports more than 50 local artists by providing space for them to display and sell their work, and directly compensates more than one dozen local musicians, dancers, and artists each month who perform at the event.