News Summary
The Coronado Island Film Festival kicked off its 10th anniversary with a vibrant ‘Mamma Mia!’ themed beach bash at the historic Hotel del Coronado. The event featured a spirited costume contest, live performances, and a Grand Prize Drawing. The festival aims to support independent filmmakers and will take place later, showcasing diverse cinematic voices. With ticket prices accessible to the public, CIFF continues to grow as a hub for film lovers and storytellers in the community.
Coronado, California – The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) kicked off its 10th anniversary with a lively “Mamma Mia!” themed beach bash fundraiser on Friday, July 11, at the historic Hotel del Coronado. The event underlined CIFF’s continuing mission to elevate cinematic storytelling and support filmmakers while providing an entertaining night for attendees.
Guests at the beach bash embraced the spirit of ABBA by dressing in colorful costumes and engaging in a spirited costume contest featuring categories such as Most Outrageous, Best Duo, and Most ABBA Fabulous. Prizes included donations from local businesses, adding a competitive yet fun element to the evening. The celebration commenced with a dynamic performance of the title song from “Mamma Mia!” by Sue Allen Villalva and her “DanZe with Sue” Zumba students, setting an upbeat tone for the festivities.
A pre-screening dance party highlighted the night, filled with ABBA hits that encouraged guests to dance and revel in the nostalgic vibes of the iconic music. The evening also included a Grand Prize Opportunity Drawing, which featured a night’s stay at the Hotel del Coronado, a gift basket, and two Emerald Badges for the upcoming 2025 CIFF festival.
The 2025 CIFF is scheduled to take place from November 5 to November 9, showcasing independent films and celebrating the art of filmmaking. The festival will include cash prizes totaling $25,000 awarded for excellence in various categories, along with audience awards to recognize the contributions of the community and encourage creativity. This year’s festival will also feature a special Anniversary Badge, granting VIP access and exclusive benefits to participants.
CIFF’s beach bash served as the festival’s only dedicated fundraiser, a crucial component for sustaining its programs and supporting independent filmmakers. The funds raised will further CIFF’s commitment to spotlighting diverse cinematic voices. As part of its offerings, CIFF provides film and script submissions for the 2025 festival, with the initial Early Bird deadline set for March 14.
Throughout its 10-year history, CIFF has evolved into San Diego’s premier destination festival, providing an important platform for independent filmmakers and writers to share their stories. The festival also features a Classic Film Series, showcasing vintage films every month, inviting the community to appreciate the rich history of cinema.
The event’s tickets were made accessible, priced at $40 for general admission, making it an enjoyable experience for film lovers and members of the community alike. CIFF has successfully partnered with sponsors such as the Auen Foundation to ensure the continued growth and support of the organization’s vision and programming in the coming years.
With such a successful fundraiser and a robust festival planned for 2025, CIFF is poised to continue its mission of championing cinematic storytelling while bringing together a diverse audience to celebrate the art of film.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Coronado to Screen ‘Shakespeare in Love’
Coronado Public Library to Host Free Concert by Rob Thorsen Trio
Coronado Island Film Festival Board Announces Leadership Changes
Coronado Public Library Launches Film Forum Initiative
Coronado Philharmonia Orchestra Launches New Season
San Diego Hosts Annual 24 Hour Film Festival with Over 60 Competing Teams
Coronado Library Hosts Screening of ’12 Angry Men’
Coronado Junior Woman’s Club Announces Taste of Coronado
Juliane Morris Returns to Coronado, Blending Marketing and Community Service
Coronado Public Library Launches Monthly Film Forum
Additional Resources
- Coronado Times: CIFF Movie on the Beach – Mamma Mia!
- Coronado News: CIFF Presents Moonstruck on June 25
- San Diego Union Tribune: Coronado Film Festival to Honor Star of Sing Sing
- Coronado Times: CIFF Opens Film and Script Submissions for 2025 Festival
- IndieWire: Nogales Film Festival and the US-Mexico Border Wall
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
