The Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF) is set to 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 2026 Country of Honor, highlighting the nation's significant contributions to global cinema.
Since its inception, GALIFF has grown from a bold vision into one of the Southeast's premier Latino film festivals, according to the Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA), which organizes the event. The festival has consistently championed independent filmmakers, amplified underrepresented voices, and connected Georgia with stories from Latin America and beyond. It has become a launching pad for emerging artists, a gathering place for industry leaders, and a cultural home for diverse communities.
“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 is also entering a new digital era with the launch of a redesigned galiff.org, which serves as a year-round hub for filmmakers, students, and film enthusiasts. The website offers event information, film submissions, volunteer registration, educational programming, and career opportunities, ensuring engagement extends beyond the festival's closing credits.
Dr. Jose Marquez, Founder and CEO of GALFA/GALIFF, emphasized the communal nature of the celebration: “This isn't just our celebration, it's Atlanta's Hispanic Heritage celebration,” he said. “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.”
The festival's longevity and success are attributed to the support of its sponsors and community partners, including The Fox Theatre, Ole Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, VensureHR, 222Creative, WIFTA, Georgia Films, Dekalb Entertainment Commission, and the Georgia Latino Film Alliance. Their commitment has been instrumental in GALIFF's mission to elevate diverse voices and create opportunities for emerging filmmakers.
As GALIFF celebrates this quinceañera milestone, it looks forward 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.
