🎬 The 28th Annual Sarasota Film Festival is coming April 10–19, 2026  |  🎟 Buy 2026 Passes 

Children watching film in theater

Education Programs

SFF Kids

Introducing the next generation to the magic of cinema through age-appropriate programming and hands-on learning experiences.

youthFEST

During the annual festival, we present special family-friendly screenings as part of our youthFEST program. These carefully curated films introduce children to international cinema in an accessible, engaging format.

Special Offer

Children 12 and under may attend all SFF youthFEST films for FREE. Tickets are required and may be obtained at the SFF Box Office.

VIP Trips

Kids VIP Trips provide film-screening field trips free of charge to the Regal Hollywood 11 Cinemas for more than 2,000 area students. This program is in partnership with Embracing Our Differences, a local nonprofit that focuses on diversity and the arts in our community.

Through this program, the students of Sarasota and Manatee counties view diverse, age-specific film programs and have the opportunity to interact with visiting professional filmmakers.

Film Literacy

Our programs help children develop critical viewing skills and an appreciation for storytelling across cultures and perspectives.

Cultural Awareness

Through carefully selected international films, children are exposed to different cultures, languages, and ways of life.

Creative Expression

Programs encourage children to think creatively about visual storytelling and express their own ideas through film.

Community Connection

Children connect with professional filmmakers and other young cinema enthusiasts from their community.

For Schools & Educators

We work with schools throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties to provide educational film experiences for students. Contact us to learn about field trip opportunities and educational partnerships.

Contact Education Programs