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.

Festival-goers have a full day of events on Saturday, starting at 9 a.m. with a Downtown Modesto Architecture Walking Tour. An Architecture Short Film Program begins at 12:30 p.m., followed at 6 p.m. by a Champagne Gala and Architecture Photo Exhibit in the lobby of The State, followed at 7:15 by a full-length film presentation and at 9 p.m., the announcement of the Audience Favorite (Film) Award, the culmination of the three days of films and festivities.

A pass for all events 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.