The Premiers Plans d'Angers is a January film festival devoted to first and second films by European directors, running in Angers since 1989. It is known as a springboard for emerging talent, with competitive sections for features, shorts, animation and student work.
This guide covers the confirmed dates for the 39th edition, where screenings happen, and how to book tickets. Since the festival’s organisers update details each year, always confirm the latest schedule and prices on the official site before booking.
Key dates: 39th edition and annual January timing
The 39th edition of Premiers Plans runs from 23 to 31 January 2027, as confirmed on the official festival. It takes place every winter in January, so if you’re planning ahead for 2028, expect a similar window, but the exact dates will be published by the organisers nearer the time.
The festival has been held since 1989, and past editions have drawn over 70,000 spectators. The 38th edition, which closed in early 2026, attracted 84,000 attendees according to the organisers, underlining the event’s scale.
Where it happens: screening venues and how to get around Angers
Screenings take place in several venues in the city centre. The main venue is the Centre de Congrès Jean-Monnier at 33 boulevard Carnot, with additional screens at Cinémas Les 400 Coups, Pathé Angers and the Grand-Théâtre d'Angers.
From Angers Saint-Laud railway station, you can walk to most venues in about 15 minutes or take tram line A to the Centre de Congrès stop. The festival’s website includes detailed venue addresses and accessibility instructions.
Distances between venues are short, so walking is often the easiest way to move between screenings. If you’re staying a little further out, the local tram and bus network connects the main sites.
Booking tickets: passes, single tickets and reduced rates
Tickets for Premiers Plans are sold through the official ticketing page, with festival passes and single tickets available. The organisers also advertise a solidarity ticket option, which lets you add a small donation to support the festival.
Reduced rates apply for students, job seekers and under-18s, but the festival does not publish specific prices in advance. Check the ticketing section of the official site for current rates and any early-bird offers.
Passes are usually the best value if you plan to see several screenings, while single tickets suit visitors catching just one or two films. Gift cards are also sometimes available, useful if you’re buying for a film-loving friend.
Programme navigation: competitions, retrospectives and special screenings
The programme is built around official competitions for first and second feature films, short films, animated works and student films. There are also retrospectives devoted to a filmmaker or theme, plus script readings and special screenings.
For the 2027 edition, the organisers have announced the theme “The Age of Machines”, with further retrospectives to be revealed in October. The full film lineup for 2027 has not yet been released, so check the festival’s programme page periodically.
The festival also runs the Ateliers d’Angers, a training programme for emerging screenwriters, with the 22nd edition scheduled for 25–29 January 2027. While that is a separate strand, it reflects the event’s wider mission to support new European talent.
Practical tips for first-time visitors
Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular screenings and the opening or closing nights. The festival does not yet publish the full schedule for 2027, so set a reminder to check the official site after the programme drops.
If you’re travelling from outside Angers, the city is served by high-speed rail from Paris and other French cities. For local food options, the Centre de Congrès has its own restaurant, and there are many eateries in the downtown area.
For more ideas on what to see while you’re in the region, explore other festivals in France. Angers also hosts the Accro'coeurs Angers street arts festival in September, which can pair well with a longer visit.
Plan Your Visit
The 39th Premiers Plans festival runs 23–31 January 2027 in Angers, with screenings at the Centre de Congrès Jean-Monnier and several cinemas. For tickets and the latest programme updates, the official website is your best source.
Whether you’re a cinephile or a first-time visitor, the festival offers a concentrated look at the future of European cinema. Book early, plan your schedule around the venues, and enjoy the city’s walkable centre between screenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for Premiers Plans Angers?
The 39th edition of Premiers Plans runs from 23 to 31 January 2027. The festival typically takes place every January in Angers, but dates for future editions will be announced by the organisers.
How do I buy tickets for Premiers Plans?
Tickets are sold through the festival’s official ticketing page. Options include festival passes, single tickets, reduced rates for students and job seekers, and a solidarity ticket. Check the official website for current prices and availability.
Where do screenings take place?
Screenings occur at several venues in Angers: the Centre de Congrès Jean-Monnier (main venue), Cinémas Les 400 Coups, Pathé Angers, and the Grand-Théâtre d'Angers. All are in the city centre and within walking distance.
What does the programme include?
The programme includes competitions for first and second feature films, short films, animated and student films, plus retrospectives, script readings, and special screenings. For 2027, the theme is “The Age of Machines”. The full lineup is usually announced in autumn.
