The mission of the Modesto International Architecture Festival, a three-day event held at The State Theatre, is to celebrate architecture and the architectural profession as both an art and a science, and to heighten public awareness of architecture and the value of architects. The festival is hosted by the Sierra Valley Chapter of the American Institute of Architects along with partners the Modesto Art Museum,  The State Theatre and the Modesto Film Society. The 2010 festival not only includes juried films submitted by filmmakers from around the world, there will be tours, a gala reception with Champagne and appetizers, and opportunities for learning about historically significant local architecture. For a complete look at the festival, including a “schedule at a glance,” visit http://modestoarchfest.com/about.html. Visit the same site for film titles, as they are selected and posted.

The festival continues at 1 p.m. with Sacred Architecture Tours, a guided tour of area churches and religious architecture, followed at 6 p.m. by a reception in the lobby of The State. At 7:15, a feature film will be presented in the auditorium of The State.

Reception/Short Film Program: Adult admission is $10 in advance and $12 at the door; students $8 in advance and $10 at the door.

A pass for all events, including maps for self-guided walking tours, may be purchased in advance for $25. Tickets for each event may be purchased individually at The State Theatre box office, online or by phone at 209-527-4697.