44th Golden Rose Bulgarian Feature Film Festival 2026 – Varna, Bulgaria
Overview
The 44th Golden Rose Bulgarian Feature Film Festival is the most prestigious national forum for Bulgarian cinema, traditionally held in the coastal city of Varna. Established in 1961, it serves as the primary competitive platform for the latest Bulgarian feature films, short fictions, and co-productions. The 2026 edition continues to celebrate the “Sea Capital” of Bulgaria as a cultural lighthouse, gathering filmmakers, critics, and cinephiles to honor the artistic achievements of the past year.
The festival is organized by the Bulgarian National Film Center and the Ministry of Culture, featuring a rigorous competition program and an expansive parallel program of classic screenings and retrospectives. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere at the Festival and Congress Centre, where world premieres are met with professional discussions and gala ceremonies. It is not just a screening event but a critical meeting point for industry leaders to discuss the future of Bulgarian cinema within the global landscape.
Event Highlights
- Main Feature Competition: A showcase of the most significant Bulgarian feature films produced over the last year, competing for the prestigious Golden Rose Grand Prix.
- Short Film Panorama: A dedicated segment for contemporary short fiction, highlighting the creative energy and innovation of emerging Bulgarian directors and screenwriters.
- Golden Rose Awards Gala: The festival culminates in a high-profile awards ceremony recognizing excellence in directing, acting, cinematography, and debut film production.
- Professional Roundtables: Engaging discussions and press conferences where creators interact with the audience and media to provide insights into the Bulgarian film industry.
Why Attend
Attending the Golden Rose Festival offers an unrivaled look into the soul of Bulgarian storytelling, set against the scenic backdrop of the Black Sea. It provides a unique opportunity for international distributors and cinema lovers to discover “hidden gem” films that are often selected for major global festivals like Venice and Cannes. The intimate nature of the event allows for direct interaction with Bulgaria’s most celebrated actors and directors in a relaxed, seaside environment.
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This event is a must-attend for film industry professionals, students of cinema, and cultural tourists seeking an authentic European arts experience. Those interested in the historical and political evolution of Balkan cinema will find the retrospective programs particularly enlightening. If you want to experience the “Cannes of the Balkans” while enjoying the late summer charm of Varna’s beaches and parks, this festival is your perfect destination.
Date & Duration
- Festival Dates: September (TBD)
Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.
Venue / Location
- City and Country: Varna, Bulgaria.
- Venue: Festival and Congress Centre (FCC) Varna.
- Google Maps Address: Варна Център Одесос, bul. “Slivnitsa” 2, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria.
Ticket Information
- How Tickets Are Sold: Tickets are available at the Festival and Congress Centre box office and through the official festival website’s online booking system.
- Admission Type: Single-screening tickets, day passes, and full festival accreditations for professionals are available.
- Ticket Pricing: Single screenings typically range from $6 to $12, with full festival passes priced at approximately $45 to $75.
- Special Seating or VIP Options: Opening and closing gala ceremonies offer premium seating and invitation-only cocktail receptions for delegates and VIP guests.
- Discounts: Reduced pricing is available for students, seniors, and organized groups of 10 or more people.
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Contact Information
- Email: nfc@nfc.bg
- Phone: +359 2 915 0811
- Website: www.zlatnaroza.bg
- Social Media:
- https://www.facebook.com/GoldenRoseFestival/
- https://www.instagram.com/zlatna.roza.nfc/
- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKlTcrSz1QzJAwYsYPu_tQQ
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Varna Airport (VAR), 8 km from the venue (~15 minutes by taxi or 25 minutes by bus).
- Public Transport: Bus Line 409 connects the airport directly to the city center (~$1.50); get off at the Cathedral stop and walk 10 minutes.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis from the airport cost approximately $12 to $20; use the Triumf Taxi app or official ranks at the terminal.
- Parking: Paid underground parking is available at the Festival and Congress Centre (~$15/day); limited street parking in the Blue Zone area.
- Other Access: Varna is a bike-friendly city with a coastal path; the Sea Garden provides a scenic 5-minute walk from most central hotels.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: Graffit Gallery Design Hotel (5-star, 0.4 km, artistic luxury, $110-180/night); Grand Hotel London (5-star, 0.6 km, historic boutique, $120-200/night).
- Mid-Range Options: Hotel Cherno More (4-star, 0.2 km, iconic landmark with views, $70-120/night); Rosslyn Dimyat Hotel (4-star, 0.9 km, modern spa hotel, $90-150/night).
- Budget Stays: Hugo Hotel (3-star, 0.3 km, cozy and central, $50-85/night); Nomads Hostel (0.7 km, social atmosphere, $25-50/night).
Reviews
- The mix of modern cinema and the historic seaside atmosphere makes this my favorite film festival in Europe.
- I was impressed by the high production value of the Bulgarian shorts and the insightful Q&A sessions.
- Watching a premiere at the FCC and then walking right into the Sea Garden for a late dinner is a perfect experience.
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FAQ's
Are all films screened with English subtitles?
Yes, the festival rules mandate that all Bulgarian films in the competition program must have English subtitles. This ensures that international guests and jury members can fully appreciate the dialogue and narrative. Foreign language co-productions are also screened with both Bulgarian and English subtitles.
Can I buy tickets on the day of the screening at the venue?
Tickets are sold at the Festival and Congress Centre box office right up until the start of the film if seats are available. However, major premieres and the opening gala frequently sell out days in advance. It is highly recommended to book online or visit the box office early in the week to secure your spots.
Is there an age restriction for the film screenings?
Most festival films are rated for adult audiences due to artistic themes, but specific ratings are listed in the program. The short film blocks and certain features may have a 12+ or 16+ advisory. Parents should check the film synopses on the website before purchasing tickets for minors.
Is the Festival and Congress Centre accessible for people with limited mobility?
The main halls of the FCC Varna are equipped with ramps and elevators to accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible seating is available in Hall 1, which hosts the main competition and the awards ceremony. Staff members are on-site to assist guests with any specific access requirements during the festival.
Is there a specific dress code for the film premieres?
Daytime screenings are very casual, but evening premieres usually see attendees in smart-casual attire. The Opening and Closing gala ceremonies are more formal, where cocktail attire or suits are common for guests. Varna’s weather in September is mild, but a light jacket is useful for the walk back from the venue.
