CineFestival Returns to San Antonio, Celebrating 47 Years of Latino and Indigenous Cinema
San Antonio’s longest-running Latino film festival is returning this summer as the 47th CineFestival San Antonio brings four days of independent films, filmmaker discussions and cultural storytelling to the city.
Presented by the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, the festival will take place July 9–12, 2026, at the Carver Community Cultural Center, showcasing Chicanx, Latinx, Indigenous and Latin American filmmakers from Texas and around the world. Recognized as the nation’s oldest Latino film festival, CineFestival has become one of San Antonio’s premier cultural events.
Four Days of Independent Film
Founded in 1976, CineFestival has spent nearly five decades highlighting stories often overlooked by mainstream cinema while providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers.
This year’s festival includes:
- Feature-length films
- Short films
- Texas filmmaker showcases
- San Antonio filmmaker showcases
- International Latin American cinema
- Filmmaker Q&A sessions
- Industry panels and workshops
- Networking events
- Mesquite Award nominees for Best Texas Short Film
Nearly 100 filmmakers are expected to participate, giving audiences the opportunity to meet directors, writers and producers while learning more about the creative process behind their work.
A Spotlight on Texas and Local Filmmakers
While CineFestival welcomes filmmakers from across the globe, the festival continues to emphasize Texas and San Antonio talent.
Since 2017, the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center has expanded opportunities for regional filmmakers while continuing to showcase Indigenous, Chicanx and Latinx voices from across the United States, Puerto Rico, Latin America and Spain.
In addition to film screenings, CineFestival provides a space where filmmakers can build professional connections, exchange ideas and celebrate diverse storytelling traditions.
More Than Movies
Hosted annually by the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, CineFestival reflects the nonprofit’s mission of preserving and promoting Latino, Chicano and Indigenous arts and culture.
The four-day event welcomes movie lovers, students and aspiring filmmakers with educational workshops, master classes and discussions exploring both the artistic and business sides of filmmaking.
By bringing audiences and filmmakers together, CineFestival continues to strengthen San Antonio’s reputation as a destination for independent film and multicultural arts.
Event Details
What: 47th CineFestival San Antonio
When: July 9–12, 2026
Where: Carver Community Cultural Center
226 N. Hackberry St.
San Antonio, TX 78202
Admission: Individual tickets and festival passes are available. The complete film schedule and ticket information are available through the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center.
