FESTIVAL 2026
The 29th San Francisco Silent Film Festival takes place May 6–10 at our ancestral home—San Francisco’s landmark Castro Theatre. The Castro’s captivating interior was designed by one of San Francisco’s most prominent architects, Timothy Pfleuger. Built in 1922, the movie palace features a lavish yet intimate interior with diverse architectural influences ranging between Spanish, Asian, Italian and Art Deco which has been lavishly revitalized by Another Planet Entertainment. We are thrilled to be back!
A PLACE TO STAY
BECK’S MOTOR LODGE
Beck’s is California lodging at its best with free parking (rare in SF!) and access to a rooftop sundeck with views of the surrounding hills and historic Market Street below. A mere 6-minute walk to the Castro Theatre and accessible to the best public transit in the city. Not only convenient to the festival, Beck’s is located in one of San Francisco’s most vibrant neighborhoods with cafés, restaurants, and shops galore.
GETTING HERE
By Air
San Francisco San Francisco International (SFO)
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Both SFO and OAK have easy access to San Francisco via BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), cab, shuttle, or car. From BART you can easily transfer to Muni Metro lines K, L, or M which stop at theun Castro Street station across the street from the theater.
A WORD ABOUT THE WEATHER
San Francisco’s climate is mild—the temperature rarely goes above 80° or below 40°. Be advised, though, that the area’s weather is extremely variable—from season to season, hour to hour, and neighborhood to neighborhood. Winter days can be warm, summer days can be frigid and vise versa. Be prepared. Wear sheddable layers—sweaters and warm scarves are just the ticket.
FESTIVAL RULES
Recording
SFSFF doesn’t allow filming or recording of any kind during performances
Phone Use
Phone use is not permitted during performances. Not only is phone use distracting for other audience members, it is disruptive and disrespectful to our performers. If you use your phone during a program you will be asked to leave without a refund.