Mt. Gretna International Film Festival

The Mt. Gretna International Film Festival (MtGIFF) is proud to announce its second annual event, celebrating both emerging and established filmmakers from around the world. Set against the backdrop of the historic Mt. Gretna Playhouse and the nationally ranked Outdoor Art Show, this year’s festival will take place from August 16th-17th, 2025.

The theme for this year’s festival, “The Greatest Life,” is a tribute to Michael Evan Deitzler, a beloved member of the Mt. Gretna community, whose legacy continues to inspire all who knew him. Evan’s deep love for his friends, family, film, and the charm of Mt. Gretna will shine through all weekend, as the festival embraces the true spirit of a life fully lived.

The festival will showcase a curated selection of short films, each under 15 minutes, across five captivating categories: Drama, Comedy, Horror, Documentary, and High School Filmmakers. These films will be presented in 90-minute blocks, beginning on Saturday morning and concluding Sunday afternoon. Each screening will offer a unique window into the creativity of filmmakers from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Festival Highlights:

Friday: Welcome reception for filmmakers and sponsors: A special opening to the weekend’s festivities

Saturday and Sunday: Film Screenings: Enjoy a variety of short films across five genres

Saturday afternoon: Guest artist presentation: veteran filmmaker and festival director Jay Rosenblatt from San Francisco will share his two Academy Award nominated short films and a brief talk

Sunday: Breakfast for Filmmakers: Jay Rosenblatt will present an educational workshop on strategies for submitting to film festivals

Sunday afternoon: Awards Ceremony: A celebration of outstanding achievements in filmmaking

Farewell Ceremony

As the festival honors the legacy of Michael Evan Deitzler, it also pays homage to the beauty and history of Mt. Gretna, a place that has inspired generations of artists. This event brings together filmmakers, artists, and community members to celebrate the magic of storytelling under the trees of the historic Chautauqua grounds.