Tickets for the festival go on sale March 21 and offer flexible packages to suit every film lover. Options include the Matinee Sampler, RiverRun Ticket Sampler, and RiverRun Mini Sampler, with prices ranging from $30 to $108. The sampler packages offer extra value—one ticket free—making it easier to experience more of this year’s must-see films. Purchase tickets early to ensure the best availability!

Beyond the big screen, RiverRun offers a unique opportunity to experience Winston-Salem’s artistic soul. Visitors can experience the creative spirit of the Downtown Arts District, savor locally inspired cuisine, and soak in the warm hospitality that makes Winston-Salem a cultural gem. Throughout the festival, you can catch screenings at various venues across the city from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts ACE Cinema Complex, and Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP—an outdoor venue near downtown.

RiverRun’s 2025 lineup delivers a diverse slate of over 160 films, spanning documentaries, shorts, animations, Carolina stories, and more. As an Academy Award-qualifying festival, it guarantees top-tier storytelling, with its winners in Best Animated Short and Best Documentary Short earning the chance to submit their pieces for Oscar nominations. You have an opportunity to see the next Oscar winner here in Winston-Salem!

A few of this year’s highlights include:

• SEGAL – A deep dive into the life and career of actor George Segal
• WE WANT THE FUNK! – A documentary by award-winning filmmaker Stanley Nelson on the history of funk music
• A LITTLE PRAYER – The latest film by North Carolina filmmaker and Winston-Salem resident, Angus MacLachlan
• MARLEE MATLIN: NOT ALONE ANYMORE – A look at the career and life of the trailblazing deaf actor
• BLUE VELVET – A special screening of David Lynch’s classic, featuring a discussion with a makeup artist who helped create the infamous severed ear

When RiverRun’s Marketing Director Tiffany Jones was asked for her best tips for first-timers, here’s what she had to share,

Be sure to drop in the Filmmaker Lounge during the festival—it's a place to grab a snack and chat with other filmgoers and filmmakers! Also, try some films that you wouldn't ordinarily watch. We offer a wide variety of films from all over the world. You may discover a new genre you love, learn something new or just expand your worldview!”

RiverRun isn’t just about incredible films. It’s also the perfect chance to experience Winston-Salem’s rich history, thriving arts scene, and dynamic food and drink options. Between screenings, take a moment to stroll through the lively Arts District, go shopping downtown, or step back in time in historic Old Salem. Explore the iconic Reynolda estate and explore the heirloom garden of Katharine Reynolds and the newly restored greenhouse, and browse the boutique shops in Reynolda Village. There are also plenty of ways to get outdoors and enjoy the warmer weather from wine tasting on an outdoor patio to hiking at one of three nearby state parks.

Stop by one of the 2025 RiverRun Rendezvous partners to enjoy a taste of Winston-Salem. Sip craft cocktails at Broad Branch Distillery, Single Brothers Bar, or Fair Witness Fancy Drinks, or kick back at any of our eight downtown breweries, including popular spots like Fiddlin' Fish, Wise Man, Foothills, and more. When it’s time to eat, savor a meal at a local favorite restaurant like OH' Calcutta, Twisted Pine, Alma Mexicana, or Camel City BBQ Factory, all offering delicious options to fuel your festival experience. This is just a small taste of what’s available, there are plenty of other options for restaurants, breweries, and cocktail lounges.

RiverRun is one of a handful of regional festivals in the south highlighting innovative storytelling that really should not be missed. It’s the perfect place to discover new perspectives, connect with filmmakers, and explore all that Winston-Salem has to offer.

For real-time updates, make sure you’re following RiverRun International Film Festival on Facebook and visit the RiverRun International Film Festival website for the complete list of movies to be announced March 18 along with detailed festival information.

Book a cozy hotel, make sure to grab your tickets early, and follow RiverRun’s social media for updates. Start planning your visit today—request a visitor guide and sign up for our e-newsletter.