Lighthouse International Film Festival June 9 - 13th, 2027
Named the Coolest Film Festival by MovieMaker Magazine, LIFF brings together storytellers and film lovers on the majestic shores of Long Beach Island. We showcase powerful films from around the world—many fresh from Tribeca, Cannes, Sundance and SXSW.
2025 HEADLINERS
Centerpiece Film: Thelma
Director: Josh Margolin
Opening Film: LOS FRIKIS
Directors: Michael Schwartz & Tyler Nilson
Centerpiece Film: Ghostlight
Directors: Alex Thompson & Kelly O'Sullivan
Spotlight Film: Janet Planet
Director: Annie Baker
Spotlight Film: Once Again (For The Very First Time)
Director: Boaz Yakin
Closing Film: Dandelion
Director: Nicole Riegel
2026 Program Guide & TICKETS
COMING SOON!
FILMS A-Z
Opening night film
narrative competition
documentary competition
special screenings
darkhouse features
shorts competition
headliners
surf films
episodics
closing night film
masterclass & panels
2026 Program Guide
Schedule, Tickets and Synopses
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2026 Program Guide
Schedule, Tickets and Synopses
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ABOUT the Lighthouse Film Festival
The 19th Annual Lighthouse International Film Festival returns to Long Beach Island June 9–13, 2027, bringing five days of exceptional independent cinema to the Jersey Shore.
LIFF showcases a carefully curated mix of features, documentaries and shorts, including acclaimed films fresh from festivals such as Sundance, SXSW, Tribeca, Cannes and TIFF.
Twice named one of MovieMaker Magazine’s “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World,” LIFF brings filmmakers and film lovers together for screenings, panels, masterclasses and conversations, alongside the beachside parties and gatherings that have become a signature of the festival.
Choose an All Access Pass for the complete festival experience, a Films Only Pass for screenings or individual tickets to build your own LIFF weekend.
More than a film festival, LIFF is a destination where filmmakers, audiences and industry professionals connect over great cinema, just steps from the ocean.
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Tony Shalhoub and Jason Alexander
LIFF 2026 welcomed acclaimed actors Tony Shalhoub and Jason Alexander to Long Beach Island for a celebration of film and performance.
Alexander led an acting master class, Shalhoub presented a special retrospective of Big Night, and the two shared stories and laughter during a memorable onstage conversation.
2026 FILM FESTIVAL NEWS
LIGHTHOUSE FILM FESTIVAL IN THE NEWS
JASON ALEXander's Masterclass for actors Announced!
2025 LIFF HEADLINERS
LIFF SUCCESS STORIES
CONGRATULATIONS TO LIFF'S OSCAR WINNERS AND NOMINEES
The Lighthouse International Film Festival has long been a launchpad for exceptional films and emerging talent, with a proud commitment to championing short films.
From shorts to narratives and documentaries, LIFF has showcased films that have gone on to earn Academy Award recognition and acclaim on some of cinema’s biggest stages.
LIGHTHOUSE FILM FESTIVAL IN THE NEWS
What People Are Saying
"Lighthouse should absolutely be on every filmmaker's radar. A no-brainer for your submission shortlist."
-Joshua Radford
"This was absolutely one of my favorite festivals. Really well curated. Screenings were well attended. Great filmmaker events; both serious (panels/etc) and parties. Cannot recommend highly enough!"
-Kristina Kendall
"What an incredible festival. Great parties, beautiful surroundings, hosts that care about your film and the experience you share with their community."
-Anthony Pedone
"We had a great time at the Lighthouse International Film Festival. It's a wonderful community with lots of great parties, events and films. Plus, it's a beautiful time of year to be on Long Beach Island."
-Cara Yeates
"I can't say enough great things about this festival! Amazing film programming. You'll see films that will stay with you long after you've returned home."
-Mark Andrew Altschul
"Super well-attended and well-run by extremely kind people. I had my world premiere there and they made me feel very special. A great experience!"
-Kahlil Maskati
"Great festival! Everyone involved was clearly very passionate about this festival. Met some great people that I know I'll have in my life from now on."
-Travis Ross
