Fantasy Filmfest 2026: Dates, Cities, Tickets & Program Guide

When and Where: The 2026 Festival Tour

The 40th Fantasy Filmfest will take place in September 2026 across seven German cities: Munich, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, and Nuremberg. Confirmed by the official source and FilmFreeway, the festival travels from city to city, so genre fans across the country can catch the same program without traveling far. For updated details on specific venues and showtimes, check the official website.

If you're planning to attend multiple screenings, consider staying in one of these cities for the duration. For those heading to the capital, you might also want to check out our guide on where to stay for fantasy filmfest. Alternatively, explore the broader festival scene in Berlin with our comprehensive list of Festivals in Berlin.

What Films Are Shown? Genre Focus and Program Highlights

The festival's program centers on genre films—horror, thriller, science fiction, and fantasy—showcasing everything from indie gems to anticipated blockbusters. For its 40th edition, the opening film is Adrian Chiarrella's 'Leviticus', described as a demonic neighborhood tale, while the closing film is 'Hope', a sci-fi thriller. The centerpiece, 'The Plague', explores the terror of belonging, and 'Buddy' features a killer unicorn on a cuddle spree, promising a mix of tones.

In addition to new releases, the festival often includes retrospectives and special screenings. This year, as part of the 'Screen Legends' series, Na Hong-jin's 'The Chaser' will be shown, and the classic 'A Chinese Ghost Story' combines romance, ghosts, and flying swords. Films like 'Hex' and 'The Restoration at Grayson Manor' demonstrate the festival's penchant for gothic and black metal themes, ensuring there's something for every taste.

For a complete list of films, note that the feature film program is finalized, but short films are announced closer to the festival. Keep an eye on the official program to see the full lineup, including competition titles and genre showcases. If you're new to the festival, our first timers guide can help you navigate the schedule.

Special Events and Spin-Offs: Nights and White Nights

Beyond the main festival, Fantasy Filmfest hosts independent spin-off events called 'Fantasy Filmfest Nights' and 'Fantasy Filmfest White Nights'. These events are separate from the main festival and have their own schedules and lineups, typically featuring a selection of genre films. They are listed on the festival's official website and often occur at other times of the year in various cities.

One of the more unique aspects of the 40th edition is the special screening of the horror-sci-fi anthology 'Memories' (1995) as part of the 'Science Fiction Questioned' (SciFi hinterfragt!) program. This screening takes place at the Zeiss Großplanetarium in Berlin and the Volkssternwarte in Munich, offering an immersive experience under the dome. Tickets for Berlin were available in advance, so check the official site for availability across both venues.

Tickets and Passes: How to Secure Your Spot

For the 40th Fantasy Filmfest, advance sales for individual tickets typically begin about a month before the festival starts, both online and at the participating cinemas. However, festival passes are a limited resource and usually only available until a certain date. For exact dates and prices—since they aren't publicly listed in advance—visit the official Fantasy Filmfest Tickets page for the current year's details.

Individual tickets for other film events often go on sale later, so if you have your heart set on a particular film, it's wise to plan early. The festival pass, if available, offers good value for those attending multiple screenings, but it's only sold in limited numbers. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date pre-sale information.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

If you're new to the Fantasy Filmfest, the biggest tip is to plan your schedule around the timetable, which is released ahead of the festival. With multiple films playing across different screens, you'll want to decide on your must-sees and be prepared for overlaps. Using a pass can help you maximize your screenings, but remember that popular films may sell out individually.

Since the festival travels across seven cities, you can also choose a city that's easier for you to reach. If Berlin is your destination, check our detailed guide on how to get to fantasy filmfest for transportation specifics. And if you're planning to attend other events in the city, note that September is a busy month—for example, Lollapalooza Berlin also takes place around that time, so book accommodations early.

Staying Updated: Official Resources and News

To stay on top of announcements, program updates, and any changes, the best resource is the official Fantasy Filmfest website. There, you can also sign up for the festival newsletter, which delivers the latest news directly to your inbox. The site also hosts the program booklet and timetable, so you can have all essential information in one place.

Plan Your Visit

The Fantasy Filmfest promises a thrilling celebration of genre cinema for its 40th edition. Whether you're a genre devotee or a curious newcomer, the festival offers a unique chance to experience films that challenge, scare, and inspire. Start planning your trip now to make sure you don't miss out.

Remember to verify the exact festival dates for September 2026 on the official website, as the confirmed dates were not available in our sources. Also, double-check ticket prices and pre-sale details when they are announced. With the right preparation, you'll be ready to immerse yourself in the best of fantasy, horror, and sci-fi.