The Telluride Film Festival is an international educational event celebrating the art of film. It exists to provide a stimulating international gathering, open to everyone, in which the lovers and creators of cinema come together to see and discuss the most interesting work of the past and the present. The festival features more than 50 programs including feature films, short films, revival programs, tributes to celebrated artists, guest director selections, conversations, panels, student programs and festivities.

The National Film Preserve, which operates the festival, aims to foster a love and understanding of the art of film and provide a festive, educational atmosphere for its presentation; promote the discovery of new trends and directions in film, as well as unveil lost masterpieces and unheralded artists of the past; create a place of connection for filmmakers from all over the world with all disciplines of the art form to meet, share ideas and develop professional relationships; provide a seminal experience for film programmers; and provide the Telluride region with an educational and cultural experience that enriches the lives of its citizens and contributes to the local economy.

The festival is constructing a permanent home in the historic Nugget Building, which will feature dedicated artist residency spaces, expanded educational programming, community events, and a state-of-the-art Atmos theater.