The Philadelphia Film Society presents:
The Locarno Film Festival
“Where the Swiss Alps meet the silver screen, Locarno reminds us that nature and cinema share the same magic: both can take your breath away.”
The Philadelphia Film Society takes your love of cinema to new heights at the extraordinary Locarno Film Festival.
Locarno is renowned as one of the world’s great film festivals — but imagine experiencing it with the Philadelphia Film Society's leadership.. Join Andrew, Michael, and Carla for an extraordinary journey that blends premium festival access, high level post-movie talks paired with curated local discoveries, rich history, and unforgettable culinary moments.
About the Philadelphia Film Society
The Philadelphia Film Society (PFS) is the region’s foremost resource for film presentation and education, committed to presenting film as a transformative and powerful medium for artistic expression and a catalyst for strengthening community. A nonprofit, 501(c)3, community-supported organization, PFS produces the acclaimed Philadelphia Film Festival, curates an extensive year-round film program celebrating the past and future of world cinema, and provides education and community outreach programs, all serving to advance film as a vital piece of Philadelphia’s arts and culture community.
About the Philadelphia Film Society
About Bliss Travels
Founded on the idea of providing special, hard-to-find experiences for people traveling in France, Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Croatia, Portugal and… Switzerland, Bliss Travels’ trips deliver just that...unique and immersive, custom vacations and events that cannot be replicated without the special, in depth knowledge of cultural insiders and local residents. Its association with the Philadelphia Film Society strives for excellence and promises a one-of-a-kind, memory-making experience in Locarno.
Inclusions of the trip (August 9th - 13th or 16th)
This trip offers two length options: 4 nights or 7 nights. Both offer full-access passes secured by PFS at an additional cost. All guests will begin their journey on August 9th, with the trip concluding on either August 13th or August 16th, depending on the option you choose.
Private transfer from Milan airport on arrival (other destinations can be accommodated upon request and at extra cost)
4 or 7 nights at luxury boutique 4 star hotel
Gourmet breakfast daily
Welcome walking tour of Locarno and Ascona
Welcome dinner or apero on day 1
One daily private transfer for our group in and out of festival, scheduled to match our daily activity
One custom excursion such as a private wine tasting of local wines or similar 1/2 day excursion tbd, including private transportation and accompaniment by Bliss Travels event plannerFarewell
Bistro dinner for people staying 4 nights
Farewell Michelin starred dinner for people staying 7 nights
Private transfer back to Milan airport on departure day (other destinations can be accommodated upon request and at extra cost)
All trips include our custom planning, booking and payment for all included items. We also provide an on site event planner for all included events (other than films). Any additional items travelers book with Bliss Travels will be managed by Bliss Travels.
CEO & Executive Director
J. Andrew Greenblatt has served as CEO and Executive Director of the Philadelphia Film Society (PFS) since 2008. Under his leadership, PFS has become a cornerstone of Philadelphia's cultural landscape, producing the annual Philadelphia Film Festival and managing venues such as the Philadelphia Society Center, Film Society East, and the Film Society Bourse. A seasoned film industry professional, Andrew has held key roles in acquisitions, production, and distribution, including Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions at Invincible Pictures. He has produced several independent films, including Everything Must Go, Twelve, and Yoga Hosers. Andrew holds an MBA from The Wharton School and a Juris Doctor from American University Washington College of Law. He is also a Fellow of the Eisenhower Fellowships, reflecting his commitment to global leadership and innovation in the arts.
The PFS staff
J. Andrew GREENBLATT
Michael LERMAN
Artistic Director & Chief Creative Officer
Michael Lerman oversees the curation of the Philadelphia Film Festival and year-round programming at PFS. He selects diverse, engaging, and thought-provoking films that educate, inspire, and challenge audiences. Previously, Michael held programming and curatorial roles at notable film organizations, developing programs that highlight emerging voices, culturally significant works, and innovative filmmaking. Michael collaborates closely with filmmakers, staff, and board members to maintain PFS’s reputation as a leading platform for film in Philadelphia. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in film from Bard College and continues to leverage his expertise to bring high-quality cinematic experiences to the community.
Carla RICCI
Chief Operating & Development Officer
Carla Ricci joined PFS in June 2025 as Chief Operating & Development Officer. She brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience and expertise in institutional advancement during a pivotal period of organizational growth. Prior to PFS, Carla served as Head of Institutional Advancement at Eisenhower Fellowships, leading fundraising initiatives and strategic partnerships. She has held senior roles in the arts and education sectors, underscoring her commitment to cultural enrichment and community engagement. At PFS, Carla oversees operations and development, enhancing organizational effectiveness and expanding philanthropic support. Carla holds a bachelor’s degree from Penn State University and a master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, leveraging her education and professional experience to strengthen PFS’s impact in the Greater Philadelphia community.
Outline of the trip
Thursday August 13th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel
Private transfer to Milan airport (other destinations can be arranged at extra cost) for 4-night stay people. One transfer per couple.
Friday, August 14th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel
Day on your own at the festival (one transfer each way provided by Bliss)
Saturday August 15th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel.
Day on your own at the festival (last day, one transfer each way provided by Bliss)
Farewell dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant with wine pairing.
Sunday August 16th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel
Private transfer to Milan airport (other destinations can be arranged at extra cost). One transfer per couple.
The outline below is a preliminary overview and is not final. Inclusions and the placement of each activity within the itinerary may still change. Its purpose is simply to give you a general sense of the trip.
Sunday, August 9th
Private transfer (one per 2 people) from Milan airport to Ascot
Arrival orientation walking tour of Locarno/Ascona
Checkin, time off to relax
Welcome dinner or apero tbd
Monday August 10th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel
Day on your own at the festival (one transfer each way provided by Bliss)
Tuesday August 11th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel.
2-3h Private transfer to a nearby winery for a special wine tasting or other similar experience we can create*
Private transfer back to your hotel
Remainder of the day on your own at the festival
Wednesday August 12th
Gourmet breakfast at your hotel
Day on your own at the festival (one transfer each way provided by Bliss)
Bistro type 3 course dinner, combination of farewell for guest on the 4-night stay, and joint fundraising/or film discussions dinner with everyone (specifics to be discussed).
IF you wish to donate to the Philadelphia Film Society Click here
Interested in extending your adventure? Whether it’s a pre- or post-trip to Milan or other iconic destinations across Italy and Europe, just let us know — we’re always happy to help you plan the perfect addition to your journey.
