Name: Karlovy Vary International Film Festival 2025 Highlights
Start: 2026-07-03T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2026-07-11T00:00:00.000Z

The Karlovy Vary Film Festival (KVIFF) is the most prestigious film festival in Central Europe and has a unique atmosphere. The first one was held in 1946 in Mariánské Lázně, a year later it was moved to Karlovy Vary and since that time it has taken place in the first half of July.

Celebrations, Film Screenings and Movie Stars in Karlovy Vary

This year, the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival celebrates two major milestones – the 80th anniversary of its founding and its 60th edition. As the second-oldest film festival in the world, KVIFF continues its rich tradition while once again showcasing the very best of international and Czech cinema.
This year's edition will be dedicated to memories and returns, with audiences invited to revisit iconic films that made a lasting impact at previous festivals and became part of KVIFF’s history.

The programme will also feature film premieres, meetings with filmmakers, and distinguished international guests, including Maggie Gyllenhaal, known for her roles in Donnie Darko, Secretary and The Dark Knight (Batman), as well as for writing and directing the award-winning film The Lost Daughter, and Academy Award-nominated actor Jesse Eisenberg, known for The Social Network, Zombieland and Now You See Me.

The Largest Drone Show in Czech History: A spectacular new addition to the festival will be an awe-inspiring drone show – the largest ever staged in Czechia – replacing the traditional opening fireworks display. This grand multimedia spectacle, inspired by the stars, will transform the skies above Karlovy Vary into a giant canvas twice during the festival. The show will premiere on the evening of 3 July 2026, following the opening concert, and will return for a second performance on Tuesday, 7 July, starting at 10:30 p.m.

What to expect at KVIFF?

Each year the festival presents the premieres of more than 200 new films from around the world, of which the best is traditionally awarded the main prize, Crystal Globe, during the closing ceremony. The festival includes a variety of film and social celebrities, thousands of film fans, concerts, ceremonies, parties, press conferences and dozens of accompanying events. The center of the festival is the hotel Thermal, but screenings are held virtually throughout the city.

World premières in Czechia: Many films will have their world or European première screening here.
Meeting the stars: You can meet famous actors, directors, and producers who will share their stories and experiences with you.
Discussions and workshops: You can broaden your horizons during thematic discussions.
Awards and gala evenings: Both ceremonies with the red carpet rolled out in front of the Thermal Hotel are worth it!
The ambiance of Karlovy Vary: The beauty of this spa town, its architecture, hotel buildings (including the luxurious Grandhotel Pupp or the super-modern multifunctional hall that looks like a giant red crab), the surrounding nature, and the healing mineral springs are among the top experiences in Czechia.

Tickets and practical information

If you want to see any of the festival films in Karlovy Vary, you need to buy a Festival Pass ⬈. This provides you with multiple tickets to multiple films, depending on which option you choose (one-day, three-day, five-day, and full festival). Tickets can be booked via the app or at one of the 25 on-site box offices.

There are many ways to get to Karlovy Vary, you can go by train or bus and there is a regular bus line to Karlovy Vary direct from Václav Havel Airport Prague. Festival buses will transport you around the city and the festival zone. These are free for all festival visitors. Ecology and cycling enthusiasts also have something to look forward to. They will be able to get around the city by bike.

Where to go after the festival

Karlovy Vary is part of the famous Czech Spa Triangle which the town forms together with Mariánské Lázně and Františkovy Lázně. You can enjoy culture, rest, relaxation, and walks through beautiful nature here. Golf enthusiasts will also enjoy themselves because Karlovy Vary offers one of the best golf resorts in Czechia.