Hello
My name is Ernie Rivera, and it's a pleasure to welcome you to the first annual Citadel LA Holiday Film Festival.
This festival was born from a simple belief: that great stories have the power to bring us together — across genres, cultures, and traditions — just like the holidays themselves. Whether it’s the warmth of Thanksgiving, the magic of Christmas, the thrill of Halloween, or the spirit of any celebration from around the world, we’re here to honor the creativity that makes each season unforgettable.
As a filmmaker and storyteller myself, I know how hard it is to get your work in front of people who will truly appreciate it. That’s why I created this festival — not just as a showcase, but as a celebration of the artists behind the stories. This is a space where filmmakers from all backgrounds can share their vision, connect with fellow creatives, and be part of something that leaves audiences inspired.
We’re proud to welcome films from around the globe, in all genres, all styles, and all lengths, provided they carry the heart of a holiday in some way. This is more than a competition — it’s a gathering of artists, dreamers, and believers.
So whether you’re here as a creator, a fan, or both — thank you for being part of this first chapter. You’re helping us build a tradition that I hope will continue for many years to come.
Here’s to magic, to connection, and to the power of a great story.
Warmly,
Ernie Rivera
Founder & Festival Director
Citadel LA Holiday Film Festival
About the Citadel LA Holiday Film Festival
The Citadel LA Holiday Film Festival was founded to celebrate stories that capture the magic, mystery, and meaning of the holidays — all holidays, from any culture, in any genre. Whether it’s the chills of Halloween, the warmth of Thanksgiving, the joy of Christmas, or the traditions of celebrations worldwide, we believe in honoring the creativity that springs from these special moments in time.
Our Story
The festival was created by Ernie Rivera, an award-winning screenwriter and filmmaker whose work has earned multiple grand prizes and semi-finalist honors at prestigious film festivals. Ernie’s vision was simple:
Bring together filmmakers from around the globe to share stories that astonish, inspire, and unite audiences — while giving them a reason to celebrate.
As a filmmaker himself, Ernie understands the challenge of getting your work seen and respected. That’s why the Citadel LA Holiday Film Festival is designed to be more than just a competition — it’s a platform for discovery, connection, and long-term recognition.
The Holiday Theme
Submissions are welcome in all genres and styles, but each entry must connect to a holiday theme — big or small, real or imagined. Whether your film is set on Halloween night, during Lunar New Year, in the heart of Diwali, or in a world where holidays are invented from scratch, we want to see it. We celebrate the universal human tradition of marking time, memory, and meaning.
Why Citadel LA?
Los Angeles is a citadel for dreamers — the fortress of cinema, creativity, and ambition. Hosting this festival here means your work will be celebrated in a city that thrives on bold voices and fresh visions.
Our Mission
To astonish audiences, elevate creators, and prove that the holidays are a canvas for every kind of story imaginable.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
123-456-7890