Now in its 16th year, the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival (VIMFF) is set to take off again this month, showcasing more than 70 films on mountain and adventure stories.

Running from February 23 to March 3, the festival features film screenings at North Vancouver’s Centennial Theatre and the Rio Theatre, along with panels and workshops throughout the 10-day run.

Spotlight films include topics that touch on environment and Indigenous issues, such as Dirt Relations, which has its world premiere at the festival’s opening night. The film follows the Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program and explores the powerful connection between mountain biking, reconciliation, and healing.

Standout presentations slated during the festival include talks by photographer Paul Zizka and writers Meghan J. Ward, Taryn Eyton, Craig Romano, and Leigh McAdam, plus sessions on action filmmaking with Scott Secco, facilitating stories to empower people with Deirdre Leowinata, and pitching and funding with Michael Grand.

Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival 2024

When: February 23 to March 3

Where: Centennial Theatre (2300 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver) and Rio Theatre (1660 East Broadway, Vancouver)

Tickets: $26 and up, available at vimff.org