Alexandria Film Festival Offers Free Tickets to Federal Workers Affected by Shutdown
ALEXANDRIA, VA — The show will go on — and for some Alexandrians, it’ll be free. The Alexandria Film Festival (AFF) announced it will offer complimentary tickets to federal government employees impacted by the current shutdown for select screenings during this year’s festival, taking place November 7–9 at venues across the city.
Federal workers can receive one free ticket to any screening at the on-site box office by presenting a valid government ID, while supplies last. The offer applies to same-day, in-person ticket sales only.
“AFF is proud to stand with other arts organizations in the region in supporting our friends and neighbors who have been impacted by the shutdown,” said Jill Ray, chair of the Alexandria Film Festival. “We believe the arts help build community, foster social cohesion, and drive local change. It’s incredibly important the festival remains as inclusive and accessible as possible.”
More Than 60 Films, Half by Local Filmmakers
Now in its 19th year, the Alexandria Film Festival will screen more than 60 films over three days, including features, shorts, and documentaries from around the world.
Nearly half of the selections come from local and regional filmmakers, highlighting the creative talent thriving in the DMV.
Audiences will also have the chance to meet nearly 50 filmmakers in person, who will discuss their work and take questions after screenings — one of the festival’s signature community features.
The full program and schedule are available online at https://afffilmsthatmatter2025.eventive.org/welcome.
Celebrating Film, Community, and Connection
The Alexandria Film Festival continues to build on nearly two decades of showcasing “films that matter” — stories that entertain, inspire, and spark dialogue.
This year’s event is supported by the Alexandria Commission for the Arts and the City of Alexandria, along with a wide range of community partners, sponsors, and local businesses.
Sponsors include Adobe, Alexandria Hyundai, Burke & Herbert Bank, Wegmans, Ted’s Montana Grill, Hotel Heron, Virginia Tech, The Zebra Press, and many more who help keep the arts accessible and thriving in Alexandria.
“The Alexandria Film Festival is more than a weekend of movies,” Ray added. “It’s a celebration of storytelling and community — and this year, it’s also a small way we can give back to those who serve our nation every day.”
If You Go
Alexandria Film Festival 2025
Dates: November 7–9, 2025
Venues: Multiple locations throughout Alexandria
Tickets: Available at the door and online. Federal workers receive one complimentary ticket at on-site box offices with government ID.
Program: afffilmsthatmatter2025.eventive.org/welcome
