If you'd told us a decade ago that Morgan Hill would host one of the better indie film festivals in Northern California, we would have laughed. Then we went to Poppy Jasper. Here's what it is and how to go.
What it is The Poppy Jasper International Film Festival is a multi-day indie film showcase featuring 300 films from 40 countries over eight days (April 8-15, 2026). Feature films, shorts, documentaries, student work, and panels with filmmakers. It grew out of a small community festival and has steadily built a real circuit reputation — enough that filmmakers now submit from around the world.
Where it happens Venues span the South Valley across Morgan Hill, San Martin, Gilroy, Hollister, and San Juan Bautista. The festival takes over multiple venues throughout each city, with most screenings in Morgan Hill. The festival map and venue list are posted on the official site.
Tickets & Passes Single-film tickets, day passes, and full festival passes are all available. Full passes are the best value if you're going to more than two or three screenings. Single tickets work if you're cherry-picking.
How to actually enjoy it 1. Read the program early. The festival posts synopses for every film. Pick five you actually want to see before you go, not while standing in line. 2. Go to the Q&As. Many filmmakers attend. The post-screening Q&As are often better than the films — real filmmakers talking about real choices. 3. Mix formats. Don't stack five features. Mix in a shorts block or a documentary for variety. 4. Eat and explore the South Valley. Between screenings is the perfect time to visit restaurants and shops across Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and the surrounding communities.
Volunteering The festival runs on volunteers. If you want to go deeper than just watching, sign up at pjiff.org. Volunteers usually get free entry to screenings outside their shifts, and it's a good way to meet the festival community.
Why this matters Festivals work best when the whole town is the festival. Poppy Jasper takes over the South Valley for a weekend and it feels like a different place for those days. The recognition from filmmakers worldwide — and the 500 visiting filmmakers attending — puts Morgan Hill and our surrounding communities on the indie film map.
For more on local arts, see our Guide to Downtown Morgan Hill.
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Sources: - Poppy Jasper International Film Festival Official - Poppy Jasper — Visit Morgan Hill - FilmFreeway Festival Listing
Media plan: Official festival poster (with permission) + venue photos.