Goleta, CA — The NatureTrack Film Festival (NTFF) is thrilled to announce the first round of highlights for its 6th annual event, happening at the Camino Real Marketplace in Goleta, October 11-13, 2024. With the full program release just weeks away, now is the time to secure early bird tickets before they’re gone! 

The festival kicks off with the Central Coast Theatrical Premiere of "Jane Goodall's Reasons for Hope." 

"Drawing on decades of work by the world’s most famous living naturalist, “Jane Goodall’s Reasons for Hope” is an uplifting journey around the globe to highlight good news stories that will inspire people to make a difference in the world around them." 

Opening Night will also include World Premieres of two short films: “Open Space” by local filmmaker Cody Westheimer and “Otter Space,” directed by Michael Love. To close the first official event of the 2024 NatureTrack Film Festival, VIP attendees and opening night ticketholders will enjoy a celebratory reception in the official Festival Hub, where they can connect with attending filmmakers and fellow nature advocates and meet the NatureTrack team ahead of the whirlwind weekend schedule. 

On Saturday, the festival will host the World Premiere of "Animal Pride," a remarkable new PBS film exploring queer animal behavior and its history through the eyes of naturalist Connel Bradwell. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with director Rio Mitchell and Bradwell himself to learn about this new piece of storytelling showcasing an underrepresented aspect of the natural world. 

Additional film features for this evening include the World Premiere of UCSB’s Coastal Media Project short film, "Ploverize," and the Southern California Premiere of "399: Queen of the Tetons." Saturday will conclude with a lively party at the Festival Hub, featuring live music from the Brasscals and opportunities to meet the day’s attending filmmakers. 

The festival will close with the World Premiere of "Tagliamento—The King of Alpine Rivers," followed by a Q&A with director John Dutton, the 2023 NTFF Audience Award winner. The 2024 Awards ceremony will follow, followed by a final party for pass holders. 

Early Bird sales will end after Labor Day, so this is the last chance to secure VIP passes for the full weekend at the best price. With exclusive premieres, engaging Q&As, and plenty of opportunities to reconnect with nature in the beautiful setting of Goleta, NTFF2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience. Secure your passes now to be part of a weekend dedicated to experiencing the rich diversity of nature through the power of film.

As we gear up for our festival weekend we are looking for both interns and volunteers. Please contact Managing Director, Gareth Kelly for more information. 

The 6th NatureTrack Film Festival would like to thank the Natalie Orfalea Foundation & Lou Buglioli, and YARDI for their generous sponsorship of this year’s Festival. The Festival team is also grateful to Honda of Santa Barbara for their support.

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