PIFF’s Great Gatsby Gala & Awards, 2016 (File Photo – PIFF)
The 13th annual Pasadena International Film Festival (PIFF), which has been running at full speed since April 9, will wrap on Thursday, April 16, 2026, bringing to a close a diverse slate of more than 160 films from over 12 countries. Screenings are being held at the Laemmle NoHo 7 in the NoHo Arts District. The event promises an Old Hollywood–style experience.
By Melanie Hooks
The eight-day festival features a wide range of programming, including feature films, shorts, documentaries, and animated works each day. Tickets and schedules are available on the official website.
The festival will conclude with its “Old Hollywood Glamour” Awards Ceremony, emceed by actor Marco Neves, honoring standout talent from throughout the event. All honorees are expected to attend.
The red carpet begins at 6:00 pm, with the ceremony commencing at 8:00 pm at Der Wolf, 72 N. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena.
Black tie is optional; 1920s-style attire is encouraged. This is a 21+ event.
Organizers state: “Our attire standard exists to elevate your experience. Baseball caps, flip-flops, T-shirts, athletic wear, jeans, and tank tops do not suit the ambiance PIFF strives to provide.”
Gala event passes ($59) must be purchased in advance and can be picked up at the event. Some festival passes include the gala as well.
About the Remaining Festival Screenings
In addition to screenings, the festival will host industry panels, a nightly Passholders’ Lounge, and the closing night awards ceremony themed “Old Hollywood Glamour.” Screenings, sponsored by First Entertainment Credit Union, are organized into programming blocks, each followed by moderated Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Weekday highlights include MascLooking, a short thriller about modern dating starring Daniel Franzese, and The Day Is Young, a dramatic boxing short featuring Dee Wallace. Both films will screen Tuesday night.
PIFF also showcased a selection of films on April 9 addressing California wildfires, including the documentaries Altadena: The Heart. The Art and the Soul, California Is Burning, Echoes of the Palisades, Going for Home, and the music video Embers. Embers and Going for Home will screen again on Wednesday, April 15, at 5:50 pm.
A full schedule and gala tickets are available on the festival’s official website.
Pasadena International Film Festival: Closing Night Gala & Awards Ceremony - Old Hollywood Glamour Thursday, April 16, 2026 Red Carpet: 6:00 pm Awards Ceremony: 8:00 pm Location Der Wolf 72 N. Fair Oaks Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103 Buy tickets online only ($59).
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