STORY BY HEATHER LAMONICA DECKARD

PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Sun Valley Film Festival Director Candice Pate has retired, marking the close of an important chapter in the organization’s history.

Pate offered more than a decade of leadership, dedication and service to the Festival and the Sun Valley community.

Since joining the organization, Pate has played a central role in developing the Festival’s identity, building relationships across the film industry, and helping establish Sun Valley as a destination where filmmakers, artists, audiences, and industry leaders gather to celebrate storytelling and film culture.

“Candice’s impact on this Festival cannot be overstated,” said Teddy Grennan, Executive Director and Founder of the Sun Valley Film Festival. “Her passion for this community and belief in what this Festival could become helped shape SVFF into what it is today. She has been an extraordinary partner, leader and friend, and her influence will continue to be felt for years to come.”

Pate helped guide the Festival through periods of growth, industry change and evolution while maintaining the spirit that has long defined the organization: a Festival rooted in authenticity, creativity, and meaningful human connection.

“It has been a great honor to help build and grow the Sun Valley Film Festival alongside such an incredible community of filmmakers, artists, supporters, staff, volunteers and

audiences,” said Pate. “What makes this Festival special has always been the people behind it and the genuine love of storytelling that brings everyone together in Sun Valley. I am deeply grateful for the friendships, experiences and memories that will stay with me forever.”

The Sun Valley Film Festival brings audiences together year-round through Monthly Movies, special screenings, conversations and community events. The 2026 Sun Valley Film Festival takes place Dec. 2–6 in Sun Valley, Idaho.