As filmmakers, we tend to put a lot of focus on getting into festivals, but what happens once the opportunity actually presents itself? You’ve received a coveted invitation to screen your film, or you have invested precious time and resources to purchase a pass (or tickets). Now what? How can you make the most of your festival experience? For filmmakers, particularly those emerging in the field, festivals can become important platforms to reach new audiences and connect with industry; they can help establish important connections not only with funders, distributors, and broadcasters but with other filmmakers whose work, experience, and comradery may inspire new work, or plant seeds for future collaboration.  Engage in a lively discussion with seasoned festival organizer, Sky Sitney (AFI Docs, Double Exposure), to lay out how best to take advantage of the unique and sweeping opportunities a festival may bring to filmmakers and audiences alike.