Marbella International Film Festival returns for its 21st edition

7–12 October 2026 | Marbella

The red carpet returns to Marbella this October as the Marbella International Film Festival (MIFF) celebrates its 21st edition.

From 7 to 12 October 2026, filmmakers, actors, producers and cinema lovers will gather in Marbella for six days of international films, premieres, industry events and celebrations.

And you certainly do not need to work in film to enjoy it.

At the heart of the festival is its international film competition, with feature films, documentaries, short films and AI films forming part of the 2026 programme.

Screenings take place throughout the week at Red Dog Cinema in Puerto Banús, but there is plenty happening beyond the cinema too.

The programme includes red-carpet premieres, acting and directing masterclasses, film-financing sessions, networking opportunities and pitching events, alongside an AI & Media Creation programme looking at how new technology is changing filmmaking.

There is even Reveal Your Talent, which gives selected actors the opportunity to audition in front of an industry panel.

→ Explore the Marbella International Film Festival

The social calendar has always been an important part of the event. This year begins with an Opening Night Yacht Cocktail Reception in Puerto Banús, bringing filmmakers, delegates and guests together aboard a private yacht in the marina.

There will also be a festival night at Joys in Puerto Banús, with further events expected to be announced. Receptions and parties are reserved for VIP guests and eligible pass holders.

It is a particularly Marbella way to do a film festival: screenings by day, cocktails beside the Mediterranean by night.

One of the highlights comes on awards night with the festival's Cocktail Reception, Gala Dinner and MIFF Awards Ceremony at METT Hotel & Beach Resort.

The evening brings together festival guests over drinks and dinner before the winners of the 21st edition are announced.

Access to the gala is included with the festival's VIP pass.

→ See the festival parties and receptions

MIFF has been part of Marbella's cultural calendar since its inaugural edition in 2006, with the festival archive now spanning more than two decades.

The festival is the flagship project of New World Trust, an independent not-for-profit organisation created to support emerging artistic talent. Its work includes connecting artists with industry professionals, supporting film financing, promotion and distribution, encouraging co-productions and promoting destinations for filming.

Over the years, MIFF has grown far beyond a traditional programme of screenings, bringing together cinema, new talent, industry events, premieres and celebrations across Marbella.

21 editions later, the red carpet is firmly part of Marbella's autumn calendar, and this October, the cameras will be rolling once again.