October 3–13, 2025 • East Hampton & Sag Harbor
Every October, just as the summer crowds fade and the light turns golden, the Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF) transforms our quiet villages into a vibrant celebration of cinema. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or just looking for a special way to experience the Hamptons in the fall, here’s everything you need to know.
🍂 Why October Is a Magical Time to Visit
There’s something undeniably special about the Hamptons in October:
Quieter roads & beaches – The summer rush is over, but the energy is still warm and lively. Crisp air & golden light – Perfect for long walks, cozy dinners, and impromptu fireside chats after screenings. Better availability – Hotels, restaurants, and parking spots are easier to snag than in peak season. Fall charm – Think changing leaves, sweater weather, and that unmistakable coastal calm.
It’s the ideal backdrop for a week of films, conversations, and unforgettable moments.
📅 Festival Snapshot
• Dates: October 3–13, 2025
• Edition: 33rd annual HIFF
• Locations: East Hampton & Sag Harbor
• Program: 85+ feature films, 57 shorts, premieres, panels, and special conversations
🎟 Passes & tickets are available now at https://hamptonsfilmfest.org. Festival passes often sell out, so plan ahead if you want premium access.
This Year’s Highlights
Opening Night
The festival kicks off with the U.S. premiere of Eternity, directed by David Freyne and starring Elizabeth Olsen, who will also appear for a post-screening conversation.
Spotlight Films
• Blue Moon — Directed by Richard Linklater, with a special conversation featuring Ethan Hawke
• Kiss of the Spider Woman — A highly anticipated revival screening
Premieres & Slate
• 12 World Premieres
• 8 North American Premieres
• 21 U.S. Premieres
• 20 East Coast Premieres
• 27 New York Premieres
Expect everything from award-season contenders to powerful indie debuts and local Long Island stories.
Guests & Special Events
• Elizabeth Olsen will headline Opening Night.
• Ethan Hawke joins the festival for a conversation following Blue Moon.
• Panels, Q&As, and signature programs like Compassion, Justice & Animal Rights and Conflict & Resolution offer a deeper look into the stories shaping our world.
• Industry honorees this year include legendary casting director Bernard Telsey.
This is where intimate conversations happen — the kind you rarely get at larger festivals.
📝 Insider Tips
Plan your schedule early. Use the film guide calendar to map out your must-see screenings.
Arrive early to venues. Even rush lines can fill up quickly.
Layer up. Fall evenings can be cool, especially by the water.
Explore between films. Grab a cozy lunch in Sag Harbor, take a golden-hour beach walk, or browse local galleries.
Mix films with fun. Post-screening dinners and fireside drinks are half the magic.