The inaugural Hidden City Film Festival (HCFF) is more than a weekend of movies. It’s a bold new celebration of independent cinema, emerging storytellers, and creative connection.

September 26–28, 2025
All screenings at Regal Escondido Stadium 16 & IMAX (350 W Valley Pkwy), across from the California Center for the Arts, Escondido.

Over three days, Escondido becomes a stage for:

• Feature film spotlights
• Curated short film showcases
• Live filmmaker Q&As
• A closing awards ceremony honoring outstanding films

“This festival is about building bridges — between artists and audiences, institutions and individuals, and most importantly, between people and the stories that move them.” — The HCFF Team

Shorts Programs

Friday, September 26 | 1:30 PM
Kick off the festival with bold shorts from local voices, student storytellers, and emerging artists.
Shorts Tickets – $25/day

Saturday, September 27 | 1:30 PM
Discover powerful shorts that highlight new perspectives and hidden stories.
Shorts Tickets – $25/day

Sunday, September 28 | 11:30 AM
Close the festival with a showcase celebrating creativity and the power of cinema.
Shorts Tickets – $25/day

The first 100 people each day get in free to our Short Film programs. Reserve your spot for each day here!

Feature Spotlights

Friday, September 26 | 6:00 PM — In The Shadow of the Law
Celebrate Latino Hertiage Month with Paul Espinosa
Q&A with Emmy-nominated filmmaker Paul Espinosa
Feature + Q&A Tickets – $30/day

Saturday, September 27 | 6:00 PM — Adjunct
Q&A with filmmaker Ron Najor
Feature + Q&A Tickets – $30/day

Sunday, September 28 | 2:00 PM — Don’t Get Eaten
Q&A with Escondido filmmaker George Simon
Feature + Q&A Tickets – $30/day

Pass Options

• Friday Pass (Shorts + Feature + Q&A) — $60
• Saturday Pass (Shorts + Feature + Q&A) — $60
• 3-Day Festival Pass — $140

Includes all shorts, features, and Q&As (Friday–Sunday). Save compared to individual tickets. All pass options include 20% off festival merchandise.

Get Involved

Want to help shape the festival? We’re actively seeking:

• Volunteers
• Sponsors
• Community Partners

Whether you’re an arts enthusiast, a local business, or an educational institution, there’s a way to join in. Reach out today to learn how you can support this inspiring new event!

Partners & Sponsors:

Community Partners & Supporters: Regal • Paylocity • DesignMo Kitchen & Bath • CSU San Marcos • Dr Boochart’s Kombucha Brewery • Mershops North County Mall • Pako Pablos & Pako’s Art Gallery • SpringHill Suites • St John Paul the Great Catholic University • San Diego Indie Film Network • B.R.I.D.G.E Lab • Vietnamese American Youth (VAYA) • Skaja, Daniels, & Luu Attorneys at Law • Shakey’s Pizza • Raising Cane’s • Tony Pepperoni (Food Sponsor) • Media Arts Center (San Diego Latino Film Festival) • Pacific Arts Movement (San Diego Asian Film Festival) •  Impact Visual Media

Follow @HiddenCityFilm on social media for the latest festival announcements, programming news, and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks.