WILLiFEST was established to provide a platform for the creative visions of today's emerging artists. The Williamsburg International Film Festival is the film component of WILLiFEST.  The film and music festivals are opportunities for artists to enhance their career by exposing their film and music to an influential audience, gaining crucial media exposure and strengthening industry relationships. Additionally, there will be a StorySlam event presented in partnership with The Moth organization as well as photo exhibits by the nation's premiere jazz and rock-n-roll photographers. In the WILLiFEST Pavilion, sponsors and exhibitors will showcase new technologies and products. The Pavilion will also provide filmmakers a space to promote their films and connect with show attendees before their screenings.

Our programming department is headed by an award-winning independent film team. The festival will also have an educational component as WILLiFEST is partnering with leading NYC film programs and non-profit arts centers that will provide real-world panels and workshops  by working industry professionals.

The music component of WILLiFEST is being produced by Knitting Factory Entertainment (KFE), a creative producer, manager and distributor of universal music content, film/TV and theatrical events: KFE operates music venues across the country; Knitting Factory Presents,  its touring division, produces national and international events; Knitting Factory Records along with its partner, Partisan Records, manages recorded music catalogues, current artists and releases content in all formats as well as music branded DVDs; and High Adventure Management which handles the careers of emerging and critically acclaimed recording artists both in the U.S. and overseas. KFE's film division just released the documentary Gogol Bordella Non-Stop with Alive Mind. Mr. Morgan Margolis is the CEO and President.