#1 Film & Media Event
Founded in 1977, the festival spans 11 days and is known internationally. 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 will include Sarah Silverman, Carey Mulligan, and Brie Larson. Next: October 8-18, 2015
#2 Film & Media Event
The longest-running film festival in the Americas celebrates global cinema. It offers screenings of approximately 200 films from 50 countries, and many of the featured films have not yet secured United States distribution. The festival will mark its 59th year in 2016. Next: Spring 2016
#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 2016
#5 Film & Media Event
The festival, which showcases independent, alternative, and subversive films, celebrated its 17th anniversary in 2015. Attendance is about 21,000 guests each year. Next: February 11-26, 2016
#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: October 16-25 2015
#8 Film & Media Event
Featuring more than 800 authors in nine days, the event attracts some 15,000 guests 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. Sponsors include Bloomberg Philanthropies and CraigConnects. Next: October 9-17, 2015
#10 Film & Media Event
Celebrating its 21st anniversary in 2016, the festival educates the public about silent film. Annual attendance is approximately 18,000 guests, and the event offers some 17 programs over four days. Next: June 2-5, 2016
#11 Film & Media Event (new to the list)
The event will mark its 15th year in 2016. For most of January, top and up-and-coming comedians perform throughout the city. Previous acts have included Aziz Ansari, Candice Bergen, and Fred Armisen. Next: January 7-24, 2016
#12 Film & Media Event
The 35-year-old festival invites John Steinbeck fans to explore the author’s hometown of Salinas, California. Celebrating Steinbeck’s life and work, the weekend-long event features speakers, tours, authors, artists, and musicians. Next: May 4-6, 2016
