Sarajevo · City
Sarajevo Film Festival
The biggest film festival in Southeast Europe, held every August in Sarajevo. History, the Heart of Sarajevo award, tickets and tips.
- Time needed
- About a week every August
- Best time
- Mid-August. 2027 dates to be announced
- Region
- Sarajevo
Why visit Sarajevo Film Festival?
The Sarajevo Film Festival started in 1995, while the city was still under siege. People risked their lives to come and watch films, as an act of defiance and a reminder of normal life. Since then it has grown into the biggest film festival in Southeast Europe, drawing directors, actors and tens of thousands of visitors every August.
The top prize is the Heart of Sarajevo, and the week turns the whole city into a festival, with open-air screenings, red carpets and parties every night.
What to expect
- Screenings: Feature films, documentaries and shorts in competition, plus big international films.
- Open-air cinema: Large evening screenings in the city center.
- Red carpets and parties: Stars and filmmakers on the red carpet in front of the National Theatre, with events and concerts late into the night.
- The 2026 edition: The 32nd festival ran from 14 to 21 August 2026.
Where to stay
Book accommodation months ahead, as the city fills up.
Practical info
- When
- Every year in mid-August, for about a week. 2027 dates to be announced
- Tickets
- Sold online and at festival box offices. Popular screenings sell out, so buy early. Prices change each year
- Website
- sff.ba
FAQ
When is the Sarajevo Film Festival?
Every August, usually in the middle of the month, for about a week.
When did the Sarajevo Film Festival start?
In 1995, during the Siege of Sarajevo.
What is the Heart of Sarajevo?
The festival's main award, given in each competition category.
