Ventura Land Trust’s annual benefit, the Wild & Scenic Film Festival, returns for its 13th year on Saturday, August 20th at Ventura County Credit Union headquarters. This signature event raises funds each year to support Ventura Land Trust’s mission to permanently protect the land, water, wildlife and scenic beauty of the Ventura region for current and future generations. Film Festival doors open at 5:00 pm, and films begin around 7:45 pm. A virtual ticket option is available for guests who prefer to enjoy the Film Festival from home.
One of the largest environmental film festivals in North America, the Wild & Scenic Film Festival shares an urgent call to action, encouraging festival-goers to learn more about what they can do to save our threatened planet. For Ventura Land Trust, the festival fosters a deeper understanding of the connection we share with the planet and our role as stewards to keep it healthy.
Ventura Land Trust Executive Director Melissa Baffa is looking forward to the return of the family-friendly event. “The Wild and Scenic Film Festival is a fun gathering of like-minded, community- and Earth-centered individuals. My favorite part of the event every year is getting together with friends in a beautiful outdoor setting and enjoying the creative and inspiring art presented in the form of film, music, and tasty food and drink.”
Baffa also shared that the event raises vital operating funds for the land trust. “General operating funds are the lifeblood of a nonprofit organization. Everything about this event, from corporate sponsorship to ticket and beverage sales, helps raise those important funds for Ventura Land Trust.” Ventura Land Trust owns and manages the 2,123-acre Harmon Canyon Preserve in Ventura, and recently announced the permanent conservation of Mariano Rancho Preserve, 1,645 acres of land in the hills north of Ventura.
The 2022 film festival will feature nearly two hours of films, and food from local food trucks. New to the festival this year is another feature bound to raise even more money: a silent auction in addition to the festival’s traditional raffle.
Beer from Topa Topa Brewing Company, Rincon Brewery, and Ventura Coast Brewing Company will be available for sale, as well as wine. Live music from bands Fish Fry and The Vonettes will kick off the festivities. In the Ventura Vibe VIP Lounge, small bites from Himalaya Cuisine, Aloha Steakhouse, and Olive Branch Provisions, and others will be complemented by wine, beer, and a cocktail by Model Citizen.
A general admission film festival ticket is $40, with $5 children’s tickets available and teen’s tickets (13-17) available for $10. VIP tickets, which include special gift items and admission to the Ventura Vibe VIP Lounge, are $125. Visit www.venturalandtrust.org/wsff2022 for tickets.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Development Director Chris Chaleunrath at [email protected] for more information.
