Poppy Jasper International Film Festival in Gilroy
Are you searching for independent film festival events in Northern California that truly stand out? The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival transforms the South Santa Clara Valley into a celebration of world cinema every April.
The festival spans multiple venues across Gilroy, Morgan Hill, Hollister, San Juan Bautista, and San Martin. A room at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn, a top-rated hotel in Gilroy, can place you minutes away from nearby screenings, panels, and galas. Stay with us, and make the entire festival week unforgettable.
Contact
Hecker Pass Outdoor Events Center
Gilroy, CA 95020
What To Know About the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival
The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival in Gilroy and the broader South County region is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit venture with over 20 years of history. The organizers are dedicated to promoting inclusion, diversity, and women’s empowerment through the art of cinema. Entertainment is also a top priority, and in 2024, MovieMaker Magazine named this one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World.
The 2024 event featured 300 films from more than 40 countries and welcomed over 650 filmmakers from 20 countries and 14 U.S. states. This annual international film festival remains one of the most diverse and well-attended independent events in the region. Staying at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn puts you within reach of it all while giving you a comfortable place to recharge between screenings and festivities.
Film Screenings and Filmmaker Events Fill the Week
This popular festival features screenings and events across five cities. Genres include drama, comedy, documentary, sci-fi, horror, animation, and LGBTQIA cinema, so every kind of film fan will find something to love.
Beyond the screenings, attendees can enjoy:
- Panel discussions: Sessions with directors, writers, producers, and VFX professionals cover distribution, emerging technologies, and women in film.
- Filmmaker Q&As: Attending filmmakers take questions directly after screenings.
- Mixers and galas: Evening events bring the film community together for networking and celebration.
The festival also runs educational programs for high schoolers, college students, veterans, and others, deepening its community impact year-round.
Your Poppy Jasper International Film Festival Experience Awaits
This annual event has earned a loyal following as a cinema festival for independent filmmakers, known for its genuine warmth and programming quality. Past attendees and industry insiders alike describe it as one of the most welcoming festival communities they have encountered.
Ready for a full week of screenings, panels, and events this April? Staying with us makes it easy to rest between films and avoid wasting time on the road.
Book Your Stay With Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn
Need a convenient home base in Gilroy for the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival? Our hotel offers free Wi-Fi, complimentary full breakfast, and an outdoor heated pool. We are also near Gilroy Gardens and other popular attractions in the area.
Call us at (408) 848-5144 to reserve your room at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to the film festival? Here are a few things visitors to Gilroy should know.
Is the Film Festival Free To Attend?
The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival offers ticketed screenings and free community events. You can choose what fits your budget and schedule.
Are the Festival Venues Easy To Get To From Your Hotel in Gilroy?
Many screening and event venues are a short drive from Gilroy. Staying at Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn puts you in a central location for easy access to all five host cities.
Can I Submit My Own Film to the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival?
Yes, filmmakers can often submit their work to the Poppy Jasper International Film Festival through FilmFreeway. Categories range from short drama and documentary to music video, XR, and student films.