NorCal Short Fest FAQ’s
Welcome to the NorCal Short Film Festival FAQ. Here’s where you’ll find everything you need to know about passes, reservations, and making the most of your festival experience.
Because seating is limited in each theatre, we recommend planning ahead. All Access Passes provide the best value and flexibility, but you’ll still need to reserve tickets for each screening block to guarantee a seat.
Read below for everything you need to know about purchasing and attending screenings.
When do passes and tickets go on sale?
- All Access Passes go on sale November 24th 2025.
- Passholder reservations for individual screening blocks open Monday, January 26, 2026 at 10:00 AM PST.
- If seats remain after passholder reservations, Single Block Tickets go on sale Monday, February 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM PST.
What does an All Access Pass include?
Your All Access Pass grants entry to all public screening blocks and filmmaker Q&As.
To guarantee your seat, you must still reserve a ticket for each screening block once reservations open on January 26.
Do I still need a ticket for each screening block with an All Access Pass?
Yes. Every attendee — including passholders — must reserve a ticket for each block to secure a seat. Capacity is limited, and blocks will sell out quickly.
What is a “block” of short films?
A curated program of short films, typically running about 75-90 minutes, sometimes followed by a 30-minute Q&A with attending filmmakers.
Will screenings sell out?
Yes, we expect them to sell out. With limited seating in each auditorium, we recommend reserving early. Once a block reaches capacity, it will be marked “ Sold Out.”
How does seating work?
Seating is open and available on a first-come, first-served basis within each auditorium.
Lines may begin forming no earlier than 15 minutes prior to each show.
Do I need an Eventive account?
Yes. You must log in or create an Eventive account to purchase passes and reserve ticket blocks.
When is the virtual festival available?
Our virtual festival will be available for on-demand viewing:
March 2, 2026 at 10AM PST Through March 8, 2026 at 11:59PM PST
For more information on our Virtual Festival, Click Here
What is a “block” of short films?
A curated program of short films, typically running about 75-90 minutes, sometimes followed by a 30-minute Q&A with attending filmmakers.
Will screenings sell out?
Yes, we expect them to sell out. With limited seating in each auditorium, we recommend reserving early. Once a block reaches capacity, it will be marked “ Sold Out.”
How does seating work?
Seating is open and available on a first-come, first-served basis within each auditorium.
Lines may begin forming no earlier than 15 minutes prior to each show.
Is there a standby line?
Yes. A standby line may form no earlier than 15 minutes before showtime. Any unclaimed seats will be released shortly before the start on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are single tickets available?
If seats are still available after All Access Passholder reservations; single block tickets will go on sale February 2 at 10:00 AM PST and admit you to one screening block.
Are tickets refundable or exchangeable?
All sales are final. Tickets and passes are non-refundable and non-transferable.
What if I arrive late?
Late seating is not guaranteed and is at the discretion of theatre staff. For the best experience, please arrive early — no one will be admitted once a block begins.
Are films rated?
Most short films are unrated and may include mature themes or language. Viewer discretion is advised.
Accessibility
We’re committed to providing an inclusive experience. For accessibility questions or special accommodations, please contact us in advance so we can assist.