Ridgway Independent Film Festival 2025
October 16 @ 4:30 pm – October 19 @ 6:30 pm
11 Years of Fierce, Fearless, Independent Film
The Ridgway Independent Film Festival (RIFF) returns for its 11th year — a celebration of bold storytelling, emerging filmmakers, and the power of community through the lens of short film.
Born from a volunteer-led grassroots effort shortly after Ridgway became one of Colorado’s first Certified Creative Districts, RIFF has evolved into a four-day immersive experience that punches far above its weight. Anchored at the historic Sherbino Theater in the heart of downtown Ridgway, the festival offers a lineup as eclectic, intimate, and visionary as the community that built it.
At RIFF, short films take center stage, with a focus on fresh voices and innovative approaches to storytelling. We also include a curated slate of longer-form films—hidden gems from both rising and established filmmakers—that may have flown under the radar but demand to be seen and discussed.
Expect more than just screenings. RIFF offers interactive panels, parties, filmmaker Q&As, and plenty of opportunities to connect—with artists, musicians, athletes, adventurers, and changemakers who call this creative, independent town home.
Ridgway is a designated Dark Sky Community, nestled between the breathtaking Sneffels and Cimarron Mountain ranges on Colorado’s Western Slope. It’s a place where nature, creativity, and authenticity converge.
Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or simply someone seeking inspiration and connection, we invite you to join us for RIFF 2025.
PASSES ON SALE NOW:
RIFF 2025 *ALL-ACCESS FESTIVAL PASS
🎟 RIFF 2025 All-Access Festival Pass – $120
Your ticket to four unforgettable days of film, art, and community.
The RIFF All-Access Pass gives you admission to nearly everything at the 2025 Ridgway Independent Film Festival, October 16–19:
- 90+ short films and 4 feature-length films and films by local directors
- Live Q&A sessions with filmmakers and industry jurors
- Special events, including table reads, masterclasses, and improv
- Block parties, live DJs, and the Dark Sky Star Party
- Entry to all primary festival venues: the Sherbino, Decker Room, Kiva Room, Ridgway Town Hall, and more
Enjoy almost all the films, events, and starry-night magic with just one pass—passes are limited, so grab yours early!
THE RIFF 2025 OUT OF FRAME PASS “Not in the shot, but still in the story.”
Can’t make it to Ridgway this October? You can still play your part in the festival magic! The Out-of-Frame Pass is your ticket to support RIFF 2025 in spirit—perfect for film lovers who are cheering from afar.
As an Out-of-Frame Passholder, you’ll receive:
✨ A Limited-Edition, Full-Color Festival Sticker mailed to your door
🎥 Exclusive Access to a special early Summer 2026 re-screening of select films for Out of Frame passholders
💛 The warm glow of knowing you’ve supported local film, creative artists, and community arts
By snagging an Out-of-Frame Pass, you help keep independent cinema alive in Ridgway—even if your seat stays empty.
🎟 $120 – Support the story, even off-screen
