The Sarajevo Film Festival: the back story

About The Sarajevo Film Festival: the back story

By the ULTIMATE Sarajevo Editorial Team

Each August, Sarajevo becomes the film capital of the region. Stars walk the red carpet, the open-air cinema fills every night, and the whole city seems to stay up late.

Born in 1995

The first Sarajevo Film Festival was held in October 1995, while the city was still under siege, with films brought in by whatever means were possible and audiences gathering despite the danger. It was a statement that culture would go on.

The festival today

Now held every August, the festival is the largest in South-East Europe, with competitions for feature, documentary and short films, the CineLink industry programme and the Talents Sarajevo programme for young filmmakers. The 32nd edition ran from 14 to 21 August 2026.

The festival began as an act of defiance. Now it is the region’s great summer party.

Heart of Sarajevo

Its award, the Heart of Sarajevo, has been presented by guests including major international actors and directors. Screenings take place at the National Theatre, the open-air cinema and cinemas such as Meeting Point.

Joining in

Tickets are sold for individual screenings, and many films are in English or subtitled. Book accommodation early, as the city fills up.

Our advice: if you can, plan a summer trip around festival week; book an open-air screening, walk the red carpet route by the National Theatre, and stay out late on Ferhadija with everyone else. Check sff.ba for next year’s dates.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with The Sarajevo Film Festival: the back story before you go.