Belfast Film Festival – Northern Ireland 2025
Background & History
Belfast Film Festival is an international event established in 1995, dedicated to showcasing the best in new, short, and classic cinema from around the world. Over the years, it has grown into a diverse festival featuring a wide-ranging program curated by programmers Rose Baker and Jess Kiang. The festival supports local talent with strands like the Irish Shorts competition and NI Independents, while also hosting an International Competition featuring films from countries such as Ukraine and South Korea. Film as an experience is central to the festival, including site-specific screenings, moving image art exhibits, and Belfast XR Festival, a virtual reality showcase.
Event Highlights
- International film screenings including new releases, shorts, and classics
- Irish Shorts competition focusing on fiction shorts from the island of Ireland
- NI Independents strand highlighting medium-length and feature films from Northern Ireland
- Belfast XR Festival featuring immersive virtual reality content
- Opening and Closing Gala screenings
Date & Duration
Dates: October 30 – November 8, 2025
Duration: 10 days
Venue / Location
City: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Main Venue: 23 Donegall St, Belfast BT1 2FF, UK
Contact Information
Phone: +44 28 9032 5913
Email: moyra@belfastfilmfestival.org
Website: belfastfilmfestival.org
Ticket Information
- Pay What You Can (PWYC) screenings: £5.00 to £10.00 ($6.20 to $12.40)
- Opening and Closing Gala screenings: £12.00 ($14.88)
- Concessions: £10.00 ($12.40)
- Tickets are available online and on-site
- No information on VIP or special seating options
Cultural Experience
Visitors can expect a rich cinematic culture blending international and local films. The festival emphasizes storytelling through film with immersive experiences, including moving image art and virtual reality. Traditional cinema screenings are paired with innovative new media forms, offering a diverse cultural experience.
Food & Drinks
While not a food festival, venues often have nearby cafés, restaurants, and bars in Belfast city centre, providing visitors with a range of local and international cuisine options.
Family & Accessibility
The festival offers programming suitable for a range of audiences. Accessibility details are not explicitly provided, but most venues in Belfast are equipped with facilities for people with disabilities. Families are welcome to attend, especially for suitable screenings.
Getting There
- Nearest Airport: Belfast City Airport (George Best Belfast City Airport) and Belfast International Airport
- Public Transport: Well-served by buses and trains connecting to the city centre
- Parking: Various parking facilities in Belfast city centre
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
When exactly will the Belfast Film Festival 2025 take place?
The festival is scheduled for October 30 to November 8, 2025.
Can I submit my film to the festival?
Yes, submissions are open for shorts and NI Independents feature films with specific eligibility criteria as detailed on the festival website.
Are the screenings suitable for children?
The festival includes a variety of films, but content suitability varies; check individual film ratings before attending with children.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online via the festival website or at the event venues.
Is the festival accessible for people with disabilities?
Most venues in Belfast are accessible, but you should contact the festival directly for specific accommodation requests. Ask ChatGPT
