Big Bear Film Festival Preview

The Big Bear Film Festival Preview brings the magic of cinema, music, comedy, gaming, and live podcasts together in one unforgettable week. This guide highlights pre-screenings, special events, multiple venues, and ticket options to help you plan your stay with Destination Big Bear. If you’re a film enthusiast, a music lover, or looking for a weekend getaway, this festival has something for everyone.

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What to Expect at the Preview

Over three exciting days, the Preview Festival transforms Village Theaters and nearby Village venues into a hub for film and culture. The lineup includes:

Independent Screenings – Feature films, short films, and experimental works from rising creators.
Filmmaker Q&A Sessions – Meet the talent, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and connect with visionary artists.
Live Music & Socials – Evening gatherings at Stella Luna and the Big Bear Village Sports Bar with music, networking, and community spirit.

This preview event delivers the best of Big Bear entertainment while setting the stage for the expanded festival in spring.

Films and Screenings

Wingman (Harland Williams + Jamie Kennedy)
Namaka (Jamie Kennedy + Frank Merle)
Stop the Insanity: Finding Susan Powter (90’s Fitness Icon Susan Powter in person)
Big Bear Move (world premiere, Alpine Zoo relocation — Braden Joe in person)
The Story of the Big Bear MX Grand Prix (world premiere, motocross in Big Bear)
Hearts of Darkness (Adam Marcus in person)

Plus, the free family screenings — The Great Outdoors, The Wild Robot, Beethoven’s 3rd, and Born in East L.A.

Passes & Tickets — Your Access to the Preview Weekend

Choose the pass that fits your experience:

Free All-Access Trailhead Pass (Main Pass)

Enjoy everything during Preview Weekend—film screenings, Q&A sessions, mixers, and evening concerts—at no cost when you use promo code INDUSTRY. This pass is our way of inviting staff, friends, supporters, and film lovers alike to experience what Big Bear Film Festival can bring.

How to claim your free pass:
1. Go to the Tickets & Passes (or Buy Pass) page at Big Bear Film Festival.
2. Select the Trailhead All-Access Pass and add it to your cart.
3. When prompted, click “Have a discount code?” or “Apply promo code.” Enter INDUSTRY, then apply. Your total becomes $0.
4. Complete the checkout / registration process. Once confirmed, go to the Schedule page to reserve seats for the screenings, mixers, and concerts you want to attend.
Preview Pass

This pass gives you access to all films, Q&A sessions, and evening socials during Preview Weekend (Sept 25-27). It’s ideal if you want the full film experience without additional concerts or music events beyond what’s included.
Annual Pass

If you plan to attend both the Preview Weekend and the full Big Bear Film Festival in spring, this pass is the best value. It includes everything from the Preview plus admission, events, and screenings for the full festival.

Tickets are limited, so secure yours now to be part of this exclusive celebration of film and culture.

Get Your Film Festival Passes Here →

Family-Friendly Fun

The Big Bear Film Festival Preview is family-friendly, offering films that celebrate creativity and community while providing a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Between screenings, families can stroll through Big Bear Village, explore shops, enjoy kid-friendly dining, and make the weekend complete by booking a cozy cabin with Destination Big Bear, the perfect home base for relaxation and festival fun.

Film Festival Preview:

Experience the Big Bear Film Festival Preview, featuring screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and socials that showcase creativity and culture in Big Bear Lake.

Organizer: Big Bear Film Festival
Venue: Village Theaters
Location: Big Bear Lake, CA
Address: 602 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Dates: September 25, 2025 – September 27, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Tickets: Click here to book your tickets
More Info: Click here

Find a Cabin Rental for the Big Bear Film Festival Preview

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Film Festival Preview – Big Bear Lake FAQs

1. When is the Big Bear Film Festival Preview happening?

Answer: The Preview takes place from September 25 to 27 at Village Theaters and Village venues in Big Bear Lake. It runs as a lead-up to the full Big Bear Film Festival scheduled for spring.

2. Can I attend both the Preview and the full Film Festival?

Answer: Absolutely. If you purchase the Annual Pass, you’ll gain access to all events during the Preview Festival and the full Big Bear Film Festival in spring.

3. Where should I stay during the Big Bear Film Festival Preview?

Answer: The best way to enjoy the festival is to stay close to the action. Find a cabin rental with Destination Big Bear for easy access to Village Theaters and comfort after a day of films and festivities.