About

RIDGWAY INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL: 11 YEARS IN THE MAKING

RIFF came into being as a tiny volunteer effort shortly after Ridgway was officially certified as one of Colorado's first Creative Districts. Now in our 11th year, RIFF has grown from a grassroots, community-centric model of celebrating short film, into a four-day immersive experience. 

Always eclectic and experimental, RIFF continues to value a community-based approach to our programming. With a growing number of programs, events, sponsors, partners and visitors, we believe that everyone who takes part in the fest feels right at home and part of Ridgway! At the same time, we work hard to bring excellent films, programs and filmmakers to our town. We fiercely value creativity and we work damn hard to punch above our weight in cultural value. Come to RIFF and be ready to make lasting connections, memories, and impressions.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE: RIFF has partnered with the Chautauqua Society (The Sherbino) in 2025 for an exciting new adventure and our biggest year ever. 

If you are interested in supporting RIFF in our next chapter, we are engaging with knowledge keepers in strategic planning, fiscal sponsorship, 501(c)3 development, Executive Board leadership, finance/accounting, film festival operations, fundraising, grant writing and more.. arielle@sherbinotheater.com 872-772-9484

We are proud to have incubated RIFF for the past 10 years as a project of FUSE, via the Town of Ridgway. Learn more about our Creative Main Street!