The Mesa International Film Festival presented by Visit Mesa is Dec. 2-5.

Hundreds of films will be shown at the Mesa Convention Center and in venues throughout downtown Mesa, according to a release.

The festival welcomes participation from industry veterans, students and everyone in-between. It will host films from around the world for three days of film, art, music food and fun for the whole family.

Registration, speakers and networking will take place at the Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St.

This year, the organizers are offering free admission for all films to all police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, members of the military, doctors and nurses. Identification is required.

“Film festivals have become a viable alternative to finding a distributor for independent films that don’t expect to be picked up by theaters. The film festival circuit can lead to screenings in museums, special events and larger festivals along with paid speaking engagements for the filmmakers,” the release states. “The Mesa Film Festival aims to create a one-of-a-kind experience for filmmakers by giving them a platform to learn about the industry, watch great independent films, network and make lifelong memories and friends.”

For more information, go to mesafilmfestival.com.