The Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF) will celebrate its 15th anniversary with a five-day event from September 30 through October 4, 2026, at Atlanta's historic Fox Theatre. The milestone, often referred to as a quinceañera, will feature Mexico as the Country of Honor, highlighting its cinematic tradition and cultural influence.
Since its founding, GALIFF has grown from a bold vision into one of the Southeast's premier Latino film festivals. It has championed independent filmmakers, amplified underrepresented voices, and connected Georgia with stories from across Latin America and beyond. The festival has become a launching pad for emerging artists and a cultural home for communities whose stories deserve the biggest screen.
This year's edition promises an immersive experience with award-winning films, visionary filmmakers, special guests, authentic cuisine, and cultural programming celebrating Mexican cinema. The festival also marks a new digital era with the launch of a redesigned galiff.org, offering a year-round hub for filmmakers, students, and film lovers to access events, purchase passes, submit films, volunteer, explore educational programming, and connect with career opportunities.
“This Quinceañera is more than an anniversary, it's a celebration of every filmmaker, volunteer, sponsor, and audience member who believed in our mission,” said Yvette Moise, Co-Founder and President of GALFA/GALIFF. “Honoring Mexico during this milestone year is especially meaningful because its cinematic legacy has inspired generations of storytellers around the world.”
The festival's impact extends beyond screenings. It has created opportunities for those without a voice, serving as a platform for independent filmmakers and connecting local audiences with global narratives. This year's sponsors and community partners include The Fox Theatre, Ole Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, VensureHR, 222Creative, WIFTA, Georgia Films, Dekalb Entertainment Commission, and the Georgia Latino Film Alliance.
“This isn't just our celebration, it's Atlanta's Hispanic Heritage celebration,” said Dr. Jose Marquez, Founder and CEO of GALFA/GALIFF. “Whether you're premiering your first film, attending your first screening, volunteering behind the scenes, or helping us grow as a sponsor, you are part of this story. Our Quinceañera is about honoring where we've been while opening the doors to the next generation of filmmakers.”
As the festival reaches this milestone, it looks to an even bigger future for Latino cinema in Georgia and beyond. Festival passes, tickets, sponsorship opportunities, volunteer registration, and film submissions are available at galiff.org.
