Get your tickets starting in December!

January 22-26, 2025

Every year Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary brings the world of cinema to Alpena! In January, northeast Michigan is treated to some of the most impressive ocean and Great Lakes films from around the world. Film screenings are complemented by social events, educational activities, and opportunities to meet filmmakers. See a trailer of one of this year’s feature films “All Too Clear” by clicking here! More than 30 films will be shared over the weekend in three different locations. Check out the schedule to start planning your film festival weekend. Filmmakers and media contact Festival Coordinator at 989-884-6212 or steph.gandulla@noaa.gov
TBIFF 2025 Schedule
TBIFF 2024 Film Descriptions
TBIFF Survey

Schedule of Events

Wednesday, January 22 – $10
6:00pm-9:00pm
TBIFF on the Road
Rogers Theater, Rogers City

Thursday, January 23 – $10
6:00pm-9:00pm
TBIFF on the Road
Alcona County Library, Harrisville

Friday, January 24 – $30
6:00pm-9:00pm
Great Lakes Gala: Reception & Films
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, Alpena

Saturday, January 25
$10 PER PROGRAM
10:00am-5:00pm
Films screened all day
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, Alpena

Saturday, January 25 – FREE
3:00pm-5:00pm
Student Films & Filmmakers’ Panel
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, Alpena

Saturday, January 25 – $20
6:00pm-9:00pm
Sanctuary Selections Film Competition
with The Sunset Project
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, Alpena

Sunday, January 26
$10 PER PROGRAM
11:00am-5:00pm
Films screened all day
Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, Alpena

Student Shorts Competition – Featuring Great Lakes content
TBIFF wants to know what life in the Great Lakes means to you…share your vision with us on the big screen! Open to students in grades 6 – 12th. Submit a short film, 3 minutes or less. No entry fee. Selected films will be shown at the festival on Saturday, January 25 at 3pm. Submit your film here.