ReadingFilmFEST 2025 Brings Global Stories and Local Talent to Berks County

From ReadingFilm Office

The ReadingFilm Office is proud to present the 11th annual ReadingFilmFEST, returning Oct. 9-12, for four days of independent cinema, filmmaker conversations, educational programs, and vibrant community celebrations.

This year’s festival will spotlight more than 65 films, with over 40 filmmakers in attendance from across the United States, as well as international talent from England, all converging in Reading to share their stories and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Thursday, Oct. 9: StudentFEST Kicks Off the Festival

The festivities begin Thursday with StudentFEST, a day dedicated to young creatives and emerging filmmakers. Local, regional, and international students will showcase their work, participate in workshops, and engage with professionals from the film and television industry throughout the weekend.

StudentFEST nurtures the next generation of storytellers and provides a behind-the-scenes look at career pathways in film.

Friday, Oct. 10: Opening Gala and Global Talent on Display

Friday night features the ReadingFilmFEST Opening Gala, a red-carpet celebration at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, bringing together filmmakers, sponsors, and the community. The evening will include live music, food, and drinks.

Filmmakers from around the world will be in attendance to introduce their films and participate in post-screening discussions with the audience. Their presence underscores Reading’s growing reputation on the global filmmaking map.

Screenings at GoggleWorks and IMAX

Films will screen at both the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts and Reading Movies 11 & IMAX, offering audiences the chance to experience independent films in professional settings.

This year’s lineup spans a wide range of genres, including Comedy/Drama, Animation & AI, Sci-Fi/Horror, Romance, and the community favorite Made in Reading block, showcasing local filmmakers and familiar places.

Special presentations will also highlight community partnerships. For example, the Berks County Latino Chamber will host Family Night on Friday, Oct. 10, featuring Disney-Pixar’s Coco(presented in Spanish with English subtitles).

Location Tour & Expo: Showcasing Reading as a Film Destination

Coinciding with the festival, the ReadingFilm Office will host a Location Tour, welcoming film executives and location managers from across the industry to explore the region’s unique film-friendly assets, from historic landmarks to urban streetscapes and rural landscapes.

This strategic initiative is designed to promote Berks County as a film-friendly destination for film and TV productions, strengthening local tourism, workforce development, and economic impact.

Community Parties & Cultural Celebrations

Evening receptions and after-parties will take place at venues across the community, including the Marriott Hotel, the Abraham Lincoln, Judy’s on Cherry, and Centro Hispano. These events invite filmmakers and attendees to mingle, celebrate, and experience the creative spirit of the region.

Tickets & Festival Info

Festival passes and individual tickets are available now at www.readingfilmfest.org.

Follow @ReadingFilmFEST on social media for updates, filmmaker spotlights, and behind-the-scenes previews.

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Source: bctv