FESTIVAL 2025
The 28th San Francisco Silent Film Festival takes place November 12–16, 2025 at the Orinda Theatre in the East Bay town of Orinda. The 1941 Art Deco-style Orinda Theatre has a sizable movie screen, room to set up musicians, a large number of seats, and a vibrant neighborhood easily accessible by public transportation. Nestled in a lovely village with shops and restaurants, it’s a four-minute walk from the BART station (Orinda is the first stop after you leave Oakland eastbound—a 30-minute ride from SF’s Civic Center and a mere eight minutes from MacArthur BART). Plus there’s parking!
Getting to the San Francisco Bay Area
By Air
San Francisco San Francisco International (SFO) — 15 miles south of the city of San Francisco
Oakland International Airport (OAK) — 20 miles east of the city of San Francisco
Both SFO and OAK have easy access to San Francisco and the East Bay (including Orinda) via BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), cab, shuttle, or car
Tip
The Bay Area’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.
Restrictions
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.