Fall in coastal Delaware is packed with local tradition, but when November arrives, the cultural spotlight turns to one of the most anticipated events of the season: the 28th Annual Rehoboth Beach International Film Festival (RBIFF).
Running from Sunday, November 1 through Sunday, November 8, 2026, this week-long celebration brings dozens of independent features, international cinema, compelling documentaries, and shorts to film lovers from across the mid-Atlantic.
If you’re new to the area or attending for the first time, there is one key detail that often surprises newcomers: despite its name, the main screening venues and festival hub are centered right in Lewes!
Whether you're a seasoned passholder or looking to catch a single afternoon matinee, here is your insider’s guide to navigating the festival smoothly.
Key Venues: Where the Magic Happens
While special evening galas and receptions take place at iconic spots in Rehoboth Beach and Dewey Beach, the daily film action happens in Lewes:
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Cinema Art Theater (Main & JEMS): 17701 Dartmouth Drive, Lewes — The official home of the Rehoboth Beach Film Society and the main screening hub throughout the week.
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Festival Hub at Hyatt House: 17254 Five Points Square, Lewes — Your main stop for picking up badges, gathering official program guides, and meeting up with fellow moviegoers.
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Secondary Screening Venues: Select festival programming and community panels are also hosted at the Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware (UUSD) on Lewes-Georgetown Highway and the Lewes Public Library on Adams Avenue.
Pro Tips for a Seamless Festival Experience
1. Plan Parking Ahead
Free parking is available on-site at all primary Lewes venues, including the Cinema Art Theater and the Hyatt House hub. However, because showtimes often overlap, parking lots can fill up quickly during peak afternoon and weekend hours. Plan to arrive 20 to 30 minutes before your scheduled screening to secure a spot and get settled.
2. Master Rush Seating & Lines
Passholders and ticket holders are seated first, but unreserved seats are released as "rush tickets" right before showtime. If a screening you wanted to see is sold out online, arriving early to join the rush line at the Cinema Art Theater box office often pays off!
3. Make It a Movie & Lunch Date
One of the best perks of attending screenings at the Cinema Art Theater or Lewes Public Library is the proximity to historic downtown Lewes and Route 1 dining. Break up a double-feature by grabbing lunch along the Lewes canalfront or enjoying coffee at a local café between showtimes.
Why Active Adults Love Coastal Delaware in November
Events like the RBIFF highlight why so many retirees and active adults choose Sussex County as their full-time home base. The summer crowds have moved on, leaving crisp weather, easy parking, and a rich lineup of arts, culture, and community gatherings right in our backyard.