continue presenting culturally relevant year-round programs elevating the contributions of Latine filmmakers, local art and traditions. We will accomplish this through our annual film festival and two large annual free community events at the Watsonville Plaza, as well as ongoing special events and programming that provide a space for inspiration, connection and dialogue while engaging underserved communities in our region.
• Watsonville Film Festival — Our annual flagship event is a multi-day, multi-lingual, and multicultural film festival that highlights powerful works by local, international, and youth filmmakers. Through a carefully curated selection of films, we celebrate the depth and diversity of the Latine experience. This year, we expanded our reach beyond Watsonville, presenting screenings in Salinas, Santa Cruz, and Aptos, broadening access and engagement across the region.
• Cine Se Puede — Our initiative dedicated to building a more inclusive regional filmmaking ecosystem. Since 2022, we support underrepresented filmmakers with artist development opportunities such as mentorships, grants, networking events, and peer-to-peer learning.
• WFF Presents — We host screenings all year-round, taking pride in curating unique cultural experiences that go beyond the screen, collaborating with dozens of organizations and artists to present a wide array of community events
• Dia de Muertos — Launched in 2018, this beloved outdoor family celebration features films, ofrendas (community altars), hands-on art activities, live dance and music performances and a marketplace.
• Youth Engagement — We make presentations in local schools year-round, inviting students to attend, volunteer at the Festival and submit their films. We also partner with youth organizations to promote film culture and production

