Each fall, after summer crowds have thinned and locals have bid farewell to the last of the wooden boats, an expectant air lingers in Port Townsend. Summer may be over, but festivities are not. There is still something to anticipate: the Port Townsend Film Festival.A small town connects with the world.

The 2010 Port Towsend Film Festival takes place September 24 – 26 at several venues around town. The heart of the festival is The Rose Theatre, a historic theater on Taylor Street. Straw bales are set up each evening in front of The Rose for outdoor screenings, and a beer garden makes the mood complete. Locals and visitors fill the street to watch the night sky come alive; children bundled in strollers stare at the screen with big eyes until sleep overtakes them. It is a magical experience.

Avid film buffs trot from The Rose to the Pope Marine building at the end of town, or up the steps to the Uptown Theatre. Screenings run all day on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and most films show at least twice. Documentaries, feature films, and classics fill the program – something for every cinematic preference. Remember to take time out and rest your eyes from time to time; we suggest trip to one of the Washington State Wineries in Port Townsend.

The community of Port Townsend is warmer and more welcoming than ever during the Film Festival. Come see for yourself. While there, relax with a glass or two of Washington State Wine, and visit Sorenson Cellars, FairWinds Winery, and FinnRiver Farm and Cidery.