Arts and Entertainment
March 21, 2025
From: Illuminate Film FestivalSneak Peek!
May 1-4, 2025 | Santa Barbara, CA
May 5-11, 2025 | Virtual Festival
Opening Keynote: Lynne Twist
We're honored to welcome renowned author and global visionary Lynne Twist as our opening keynote speaker. Known for her groundbreaking work with The Soul of Money Institute and the Pachamama Alliance, Lynne will share her insights about the transformative power of committing to something larger than oneself.
Just a Few Films in Our Incredible Lineup (more soon!)
Wisdom of Happiness
A deeply intimate cinematic heart-to-heart with the Dalai Lama, who offers practical wisdom for navigating today's challenges. Executive produced by Richard Gere, this profound experience may be the Dalai Lama's final film appearance.
The Journey
From executive producer SIA comes this groundbreaking film where musical brothers Isaac and Thorald Koren guide individuals struggling with personal hardships through a transformative musical experience. Unlike traditional makeover shows, The Journey uses song, rhythm, and raw creativity rather than makeup or fashion to create lasting change.
Between the Mountain and the Sky
Executive produced by Mark & Jay Duplass, this film follows humanitarian Maggie Doyne as she creates a family with over 50 Nepalese children. When tragedy strikes shortly after being named CNN Hero of the Year, Maggie and her extraordinary family must find resilience in the face of loss.
Rescued Hearts
Personal stories and scientific studies illuminate the profound and often miraculous connection between humans and horses. Inspired by a nonverbal boy with autism speaking his first words while interacting with a horse, filmmakers seek to uncover the deeper meaning behind this extraordinary bond and how horses help us heal and reconnect.
Parties & Community Gatherings - Your Festival Pass Includes It All!
Opening Night Celebration - Rub shoulders with visionary filmmakers, spark meaningful connections, and toast the start of an unforgettable weekend at Kiva Cowork's stunning State Street venue. The energy of opening night sets the tone for the transformational journey ahead!
Soul on Fire Dance Party - Let loose as local legends Red Fish ignite the dance floor with irresistible 80's hits and funk classics! This isn't just a party-it's a full-body celebration where the ILLUMINATE community comes together in joy and movement.
Happy Heart Hour Reception - Step into an enchanted rainforest installation at Art & Soul Gallery while meeting ILLUMINATE's brilliant poster artist Tricia Evenson. Experience her mesmerizing artwork while enjoying refreshments in this magical setting.
Heart & Harmony Song Circle - Feel the power of voices united as renowned vocalist Donna De Lory guides this soul-stirring community singing experience. No musical background needed-just bring your authentic voice for this uniquely connecting event.
Acting Through The Lens of Love Workshop - Transform inspiration into action! Holomovement leads this powerful workshop on embodying compassion in everyday life-the perfect complement to the films that will open your heart and mind.
These extraordinary community experiences alone justify securing your festival pass-and they're just the beginning of what ILLUMINATE 2025 offers!
Individual tickets will go on sale April 1st (if available). However, Pass Holders will have a week to book their seats before individual tickets go on sale. Many popular films from previous years have sold out during the pass holder reservation period.
Why Your Festival Pass Is Essential:
Uplevel Opportunity:
Universe Pass
Looking to support the festival, gain additional perks, attend the Industry Hive, and receive a $425 tax deduction? The exclusive Universe Pass is for you (very limited quantity available).
The Universe Pass includes:
Join us for this celebration of conscious cinema that will awaken your heart, spark your mind, and ignite your spirit!
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The ILLUMINATE Team