#1 Film & Media Event
Founded in 1977 as a small, three-day event, the festival has blossomed into an 11-day, internationally renowned happening. It has screened such films as Slumdog Millionaire and Argo, and it draws participation from 200 filmmakers representing 50 countries. This year, actors in attendance included Reese Witherspoon and Hilary Swank. Next: Fall 2015
#2 Film & Media Event
The longest-running film festival in the Americas celebrates global cinema with screenings of approximately 200 films from 50 countries. Many of the featured films have not yet secured United States distribution. Next: April 23-May 7, 2015
#3 Film & Media Event
The largest Asian-American film festival in North America offers screenings in several neighborhoods, including Oakland, Berkley, and Chinatown. According to organizers, the films are selected to “illustrate the depth and complexity of the Asian American experience.” Next: March 12-22, 2015
#4 Film & Media Event
The world’s first and largest Jewish film festival draws more than 30,000 attendees each year. Held over the course of three weeks, the event screens Jewish films from around the world in four Bay Area venues. Next: Summer 2015
#5 Film & Media Event
The festival, which showcases independent, alternative, and subversive films, celebrated its 16th anniversary in 2014. Attendance is about 21,000 guests each year. Next: February 5-19, 2015
#6 Film & Media Event
Founded in 1996, the festival is the largest independent annual showcase of Arab films and filmmakers in the country. It is also held in Los Angeles and San Diego. Next: Fall 2015
#7 Film & Media Event
Presented by San Francisco IndieFest, the festival aims to showcase documentary cinema to a younger audience. Its films cover topics ranging from social media to music. Next: June 2015
#8 Film & Media Event
Featuring more than 800 authors in nine days, the event attracts some 15,000 book lovers each year. It features readings, youth programs, classroom visits, and book giveaways; it has also spawned localized “Lit Crawl” events, held in such markets as Miami and Los Angeles. Next: October 2015
#11 Film & Media Event
The 34-year-old festival invites John Steinbeck fans to explore the author’s hometown of Salinas. Celebrating Steinbeck’s life and work, the weekend-long festival features speakers, tours, authors, artists, and musicians. Next: May 1-3, 2015
