The 5th European Film Festival (EUFF) returns to Pakistan this weekend with a programme of films, performances and cultural activities across three cities.

The festival will take place in Islamabad, Sialkot and Jamshoro/Hyderabad during September. It aims to connect audiences through European and Pakistani cinema while creating opportunities for cultural exchange and dialogue.

The European Union presents the festival, while Olomopolo Media curates the programme.

This year’s edition will feature European feature films, documentaries and experimental short films. It will also showcase a selection of Pakistani short films.

Islamabad Opens the 2026 Festival

The European Film Festival 2026 will begin in Islamabad on September 12 and 13 at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA).

Alongside film screenings, audiences will experience a Stand-up Comedy & Improv Showcase. The programme will also include a special children’s segment.

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The children’s programme will feature a family-friendly European film, followed by storytelling and a music session.

The festival will then move to Sialkot on September 16 and 17. Events will take place at Government College Women University and GRID by BLCK.

The final leg will take place in Jamshoro/Hyderabad on September 29 and 30 at SABS University of Art, Design & Heritages. A live musical performance will form part of the closing programme.

Cinema and Culture Across Pakistan

The festival first arrived in Pakistan in 2021. Since then, the travelling event has visited cities including Gilgit, Quetta, Peshawar, Gujrat, Faisalabad, Multan, Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad.

Through its travelling format, EUFF has used cinema to encourage cultural exchange and dialogue across different parts of Pakistan.

The festival brings together audiences from diverse backgrounds. Its programme targets young people, families, film enthusiasts, filmmakers, members of the film fraternity and diplomats.

Interactive Experiences Add a New Dimension

Film screenings will form only part of this year’s programme. Organisers will also offer immersive and interactive experiences for visitors.

The installations include EUFF-Pakistan Express, a train-themed installation, along with a Wall of Fame and Human Slot Game.

Visitors can also explore a Reading Nook and Kids’ Corner.

These activities aim to create spaces where audiences can engage with the festival beyond traditional cinema screenings.

New Industry Programme for Filmmakers

The 2026 edition will also introduce the Filmmakers’ Mixer as part of a new Industry Programme session.

The initiative will provide an opportunity for members of the filmmaking community to connect and engage with one another.

Organisers said the wider programme seeks to expand cinematic experiences and encourage conversations around film and culture.

The festival also aims to use cinema as a way to connect cultures while creating spaces for collective activities and public engagement.

With events spread across three locations, the European Film Festival Pakistan will combine cinema, live entertainment and interactive experiences to strengthen cultural connections between European and Pakistani audiences.