Kona Surf Film Festival kicks off Friday [Or … Silver (screen) surfers]

The ninth annual Kona Surf Film Festival will showcase a record number of independent short and feature films starting on Friday.

The Kona Surf Film Festival showcases independent short and feature films from established and emerging surf filmmakers from around the globe. The event is a benefit for the Kona Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation and Na Kama Kai (Children of the Sea), whose mission is to empower youth by creating ocean-based programs that target ocean safety and conservation awareness.

The festival kicks off at 4 p.m. Friday at The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows and continues Saturday and Sunday from 4 to 10 p.m. Attendees should bring their own chair and blanket as well as a sweater. No coolers are allowed.

Cost for adults is $20 at the door or $17 if purchased ahead; for kids 14 and under cost is $15 at the door or $10 if purchased ahead. Kids are free. Two-day passes are available online through Tuesday for $30 for adults and $20 for kids 14 and under.

This year, festival organizers received 42 film submissions from American, Australian, European and local filmmakers. Music and slide shows are also part of the festival.

Chad Campbell, festival founder and program director, was unable to be reached for comment, however, in a prepared statement he said, “I’m so stoked to be gearing up for our ninth year. It seems like each year we get more films, more art, more people and always have a great time.”

The festival will also feature planet-friendly local artwork, design, fashion, jewelry, and surf equipment and accessories for sale. Art installations and an alternative surf movie screen will also be part of the lineup.

The festival celebrates the art of surfing and gives people an opportunity to share in the activity outside of the water.

For more information, or to purchase tickets through Tuesday online, visit konasurffilmfestival.org.