The 41st Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival (SBIFF) returns February 4–14, 2026, once again turning the California coast into a premier destination for film lovers, industry insiders, and awards-season watchers alike. Known for its intimate conversations, career-spanning tributes, and thoughtfully curated programming, SBIFF continues to stand out as a festival where quality, craft, and performance take center stage—not just box office numbers.
With the full festival program set to be announced on January 14, SBIFF has already unveiled an impressive slate of honorees—offering an early look at the performances and careers shaping this year’s awards conversation.
Honors Announced to Date
Below is a breakdown of the major tributes announced so far for SBIFF 2026, including dates, honorees, and award distinctions—making this festival one to watch closely throughout awards season.
February 5, 2026
Adam Sandler
Maltin Modern Master Award
One of Hollywood’s most versatile performers, Adam Sandler will receive the Maltin Modern Master Award, honoring his enduring impact across comedy, drama, and dramatic reinvention. From iconic studio comedies to acclaimed dramatic performances, Sandler’s career exemplifies longevity and creative evolution.
February 8, 2026
Virtuosos Award Honorees
The Virtuosos Award celebrates a select group of performers whose recent work represents bold choices, artistic growth, and undeniable momentum—often signaling the next wave of awards-season contenders. This year’s honorees include:
- Jacob Elordi – FRANKENSTEIN
- Chase Infiniti – ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER
- Amy Madigan – WEAPONS
- Wagner Moura – THE SECRET AGENT
- Renate Reinsve – SENTIMENTAL VALUE
- Sydney Sweeney – CHRISTY
- Teyana Taylor – ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER
- Jeremy Allen White – SPRINGSTEEN: DELIVER ME FROM NOWHERE
This year’s Virtuosos lineup reflects SBIFF’s ongoing commitment to spotlighting both emerging voices and established artists delivering some of their most compelling work to date.
February 9, 2026
Hammond Cinema Vanguard Award
Honoring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio Del Toro
Monday, February 9, 2026
Arlington Theatre
The Hammond Cinema Vanguard Award honors artists who consistently challenge expectations and redefine cinematic storytelling. This year’s trio—Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio Del Toro—represents decades of fearless performances, creative risk-taking, and global influence on modern cinema.
February 11, 2026
Stellan Skarsgård
Montecito Award
Internationally revered for his commanding screen presence and expansive body of work, Stellan Skarsgård will be honored with the Montecito Award, recognizing exceptional contributions to cinema both domestically and internationally.
February 12, 2026
Michael B. Jordan
Outstanding Performer of the Year Award
Michael B. Jordan will be recognized for a year defined by powerful performances and continued influence as both an actor and filmmaker. The Outstanding Performer of the Year Award highlights his impact on contemporary cinema and his growing legacy in the industry.
Festival Dates, Program Announcement & What’s Next
- Festival Dates: February 4–14, 2026
- Program Announcement: January 14, 2026
As always, SBIFF will feature a dynamic mix of film screenings, celebrity tributes, panel discussions, and filmmaker Q&As across Santa Barbara’s most iconic venues.
With a prestigious honors slate already in place, the 41st Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival is shaping up to be a must-watch stop on the awards-season circuit—one that continues to prove why quality storytelling and standout performances remain at the heart of meaningful cinema.
