2025 Venues

Village East Cinema

The Village East Cinema has a fascinating history as one of the last surviving “Yiddish Rialto” theaters dating back to 1926. Today, the cinema is known for premiering many independent films and an eclectic mix of art and commercial releases. The theater’s most significant visual aspect, however, is its main auditorium’s ornate and colorful ceiling, which is regarded as having one of the most remarkable works of plaster craftsmanship in New York City.

DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema

87 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10013

Founded in 1972, DCTV has grown into one of the leading documentary production and film education centers in the country. A community of and for documentary filmmakers, DCTV is a unique space where screenings, discussions, youth media, continuing education programs, and filmmaking resources exist side by side with award-winning productions. In 2022, DCTV celebrated its 50th year with the opening of Firehouse: DCTV’s Cinema for Documentary Film, a place where filmmakers and film lovers can come together in appreciation of nonfiction film. Housed in DCTV's beloved landmarked building in Chinatown, New York City, Firehouse features first run, curated, repertory, masterclasses, family programs and more. LESFF is proud to partner with DCTV for the 2024 fest!

GEORGIE’S CAFE & BAR

182 Broome St 2nd Fl, New York, NY 10002

Georgie’s, the sun-drenched, Hong Kong-inspired café perched above VITAL climbing gym on Broome & Clinton.

Enter on Broome Street through the VITAL climbing gym entrance.

VITAL CLIMBING GYM LES

182 Broome St, New York, NY 10002

VITAL Lower East Side is NYC's newest climbing gym, where you can enjoy 24/7 bouldering and workouts, unlimited cycling, yoga, and fitness classes, and a vibrant new community.

Day passes are discounted to $10 for all festival attendees from May 1-5 — just show proof of purchase of an LESFF event at the front desk!

THE SLIPPER ROOM

167 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

A true Lower East Side original, The Slipper Room is NYC’s iconic variety theater and nightlife haunt — equal parts velvet-draped opulence and downtown grit. Since opening in 1999, it’s been home to everything from burlesque and comedy to cabaret and live music, offering a stage for the weird, the wild, and the wonderfully unexpected. With its intimate balcony, plush booths, and over-the-top charm, The Slipper Room is the kind of place where anything can happen — and often does. A perfect spot to close out LESFF with one last unforgettable night.