Every November, the Thessaloniki International Film Festival transforms Greece's second city into a vibrant hub for cinema lovers and industry professionals. The event is anchored at Aristotelous Square and the historic Olympion Theater, where audiences gather in the cafés to discuss the day's screenings. Whether you are a dedicated festival-goer or planning your first visit, understanding the practicalities will help you enjoy the experience to the fullest.
When the festival happens
The festival historically runs in November, but exact dates change every year. The 65th edition took place from October 31 to November 10, 2024, and the 66th edition ran from October 31 to November 9, 2025. Because dates are confirmed only shortly before each edition, always check the official festival website for the current schedule.
The main venues
The Olympion on Aristotelous Square is the festival's beating heart. Its main hall seats 406, with an additional 80 in the balcony, while the smaller Pavlos Zannas hall accommodates 180. Both spaces were refurbished with new seating and carpeting for the 2024 edition after 30 years. At the port, Warehouse 1 hosts the Stavros Tornes and John Cassavetes theaters, each with about 200 seats, and Warehouse D houses the Frieda Liappa and Tonia Marketaki theaters, each seating 250. Additional screenings take place at the Makedonikon Cinema on Filikis Etairias Street.
Ticketing: patterns and options
Ticket pricing has varied across editions. For the 65th edition, the festival charged €7 for a single screening and offered a package of 10 screenings for €50, with online screenings priced at €4 each. However, these figures are from a past edition and are not guaranteed for future events. For current rates and availability, consult the official ticket platform, which is typically linked from the festival's website.
Program sections
The festival program includes competitive sections for new productions from around the world as well as thematic sidebars. A key non-competitive section, Open Horizons, showcases independent films; at the 65th edition, it featured 52 such works. The festival also organizes tributes to influential figures, such as the honorary Golden Alexander awarded to Greek director Panos Koutras and special tributes to Danish artist Jesper Just and French artist Niki de Saint Phalle at the same edition. These tributes and guests change every year, so check the program once it is released.
Parallel events and atmosphere
Screenings are only part of the experience. The festival spills into the city with parties, talks, and installations. In recent editions, the MOMus – Experimental Center for the Arts in Warehouse B1 showcased visual installations, and discussions on topics like artificial intelligence in cinema were held at the Olympion. The port warehouses offer a grittier ambiance, and hot chocolate with rum is a favorite at their canteens. Evenings continue in Thessaloniki's cafés and bars, where film talk and socializing carry on late.
Online screenings and hybrid options
Since 2020, the festival has supplemented its physical screenings with an online platform, allowing audiences beyond Thessaloniki to watch selected films. The online catalog and screening fees have varied; in the 65th edition, 67 films were available online for €4 each. For the latest details on digital access, the festival's official website is the best source.
Getting around and practical planning
The festival's hub at Aristotelous Square is walkable from many central hotels and is served by public transport. The main venues are clustered between the square and the port, so a short stroll often suffices. Still, the Makedonikon Cinema lies further afield, so factor in travel time. Look for accommodation near the city center to minimize commutes, and check the official practical information section for venue access and any changes before you travel.
If you like documentary cinema, consider planning around the Thessaloniki Documentary Festival, which typically runs in March and offers a different but equally engaging film experience in the same city. For a broader look at events across Greece, check our guide to festivals in Greece.
Plan Your Visit
A first visit to the Thessaloniki International Film Festival is best planned with flexibility, since dates, prices, and programs are confirmed only near each November edition. Use the official festival website to check the latest schedule and ticketing, and be prepared to explore the city's cinemas and port warehouses. With its mix of screenings, events, and lively street culture, the festival offers a rich autumn escape for any film lover.
Related festival guides
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Thessaloniki International Film Festival 2026?
The 2026 edition is scheduled to run from November 5 to 15, according to the festival's online guide. However, dates can change, so confirm the dates on the official festival website closer to the event.
What are the ticket prices for the Thessaloniki Film Festival?
Ticket prices vary by edition and are announced close to the festival. Check the official festival website for the current price list and purchasing options.
Where does the festival take place?
The main venue is the Olympion on Aristotelous Square. Screenings also occur at port warehouses (Warehouse 1 and D) and at the Makedonikon Cinema on Filikis Etairias Street.
What is the Open Horizons section?
Open Horizons is a non-competitive section that showcases independent films from around the world. It is one of the festival's most popular sidebars.
Are there online screenings?
Yes, the festival has offered online screenings since 2020 through a dedicated digital platform. The number and selection of online films vary each year.
Who are the special guests?
Special guests vary each year. At the 65th edition, Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fiennes were honored with Golden Alexander awards, and tributes were made to artists like Jesper Just and Niki de Saint Phalle.
