The Georgia Latino International Film Festival (GALIFF) is set to mark a significant milestone as it celebrates its 15th anniversary, a quinceañera, with an expanded five-day program from September 30 to October 4, 2026, at Atlanta’s historic Fox Theatre. The festival, organized by the Georgia Latino Film Alliance (GALFA), will honor Mexico as its 2026 Country of Honor, spotlighting the nation’s rich cinematic tradition through screenings, cultural programming, and culinary experiences.
Since its inception, GALIFF has grown from a bold vision into one of the Southeast’s premier Latino film festivals, dedicated to championing independent filmmakers and amplifying underrepresented voices. According to Yvette Moise, Co-Founder and President of GALFA/GALIFF, the anniversary is not just about looking back but also about celebrating the collective effort behind the festival’s success. ‘This Quinceañera is more than an anniversary, it’s a celebration of every filmmaker, volunteer, sponsor, and audience member who believed in our mission,’ Moise said.
The festival’s 15th edition also marks a strategic shift toward digital engagement with the launch of a redesigned galiff.org. This new platform aims to serve as a year-round hub for filmmakers, students, and film enthusiasts, offering access to event information, film submissions, volunteer registration, and educational programming. The move reflects GALIFF’s commitment to maintaining community connections beyond the annual event, fostering career opportunities and ongoing dialogue about Latino cinema.
Dr. Jose Marquez, Founder and CEO of GALFA/GALIFF, emphasized the inclusive nature of the celebration, stating, ‘This isn’t just our celebration, it’s Atlanta’s Hispanic Heritage celebration.’ He extended an invitation to filmmakers, volunteers, and sponsors to participate in what promises to be the most ambitious festival yet.
The 2026 festival is supported by a roster of sponsors and community partners, including the Fox Theatre, Ole Mexican Foods, Fulton Films, and VensureHR, among others. Their backing has been instrumental in GALIFF’s ability to elevate diverse voices and create opportunities for emerging talent over the past 15 years.
As GALIFF enters its next decade, it continues to serve as a launching pad for artists and a cultural gathering place in Georgia. The festival’s growth underscores the importance of Latino storytelling in the broader cinematic landscape, and its longevity speaks to the demand for such platforms. By honoring Mexico and expanding its digital reach, GALIFF is positioning itself to connect with a wider audience and nurture the next generation of filmmakers.
Festival passes, tickets, and sponsorship opportunities are available at galiff.org, where interested parties can also find details on volunteer registration and film submissions.
