How to Fest

Everything you need to know about attending WinterFest 2025, including venue information, our COVID and accessibility policies, and JFI's code of conduct.

Reach out directly to info@jfi.org for any accessibility or mobility questions, concerns, or requests.

The box office line also provides assistance: 415.621.0568

Please check back for a list of subtitled films

Check back here to see a full list of WinterFest films with open captions.

Check back to see a list of available WinterFest films with audio descriptions.

The Jewish Film Institute's mission is to champion bold films and filmmakers that expand and evolve the Jewish story for audiences everywhere. Our goal is to connect filmmakers and audiences in the Bay Area and around the world; and we value the creative expression, cultural diversity, and varied perspectives that make up our community.

While we appreciate dialogues and differing opinions at the  Festival, we will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or abusive behavior. JFI is committed to providing our audiences, guests, and partners an experience that is free of harassment and discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender performance, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, class, age, or ability. We reserve the right to revoke, without notice or refund, tickets, passes, credentials, or access to JFI events and venues. Our aim is to create a safe and welcoming environment for all who wish to attend the screenings and other events that are part of the WinterFest Film Festival.

Any individual who witnesses or experiences a violation of this Code of Conduct should contact a WinterFest staff member immediately. If a staff member is not present, contact info@jfi.org.

When you arrive at a festival venue, please look for a JFI WinterFest staff member or volunteer who will direct you to the appropriate line. While waiting in line, please be considerate of our neighbors and local businesses. We remind patrons that it's now illegal to smoke while waiting in line or near entrances to venues.

All seats are general admission, and multiple seat-saving is not permitted. Select seats may be saved by the festival for filmmakers and other guests of the festival. We ask that you observe reserved seating signage by not removing signage. Please choose a seat in an unreserved section. All audience members must vacate the theater following each screening. Leaving belongings and/or saving seats between shows is not permitted.

JFI believes in everyone's right to choose the restroom they are most comfortable using; please disregard any exclusionary signage that may be visible at our venues.

Please refrain from wearing perfumes and other scented products so that attendees with environmental sensitivities can comfortably enjoy the films.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed in the venue. We ask that you respect the venue policies and purchase food and beverages from the venue's concessions stands.

• All programs are subject to change without notice. Refunds and exchanges will only be issued in the rare case of program cancellations.
• The majority of films are unrated and may not be suitable for ages 17 and under unless otherwise noted. Parental discretion is advised.
• Each film will be shown in its original language (with English subtitles for non-English films), unless otherwise noted.
• Recording devices of any type are not permitted in the theaters.
• Please silence all phones when in theaters.

The Jewish Film Institute is committed to ensuring in-person experiences are as safe as possible for our patrons. We continue to monitor city public health guidelines and recommendations regarding COVID-19.

Masks are strongly recommended at all JFI screenings and events when not eating or drinking. Proof of vaccination is not required to attend. Given the evolving nature of public health guidance, JFI may update health and safety protocols as needed and/or recommended or required. If you are feeling unwell, please stay home until you feel better.

For any further questions about JFI's COVID policies please contact us.