The Transilvania International Film Festival (TIFF) is back and bigger than ever in 2026, celebrating its 25th anniversary edition from June 12–21 in Cluj-Napoca. As Romania’s largest international film festival, TIFF has grown from a small local event into one of Eastern Europe’s most respected cinematic gatherings.
A Quarter Century of Cinematic Excellence
Founded in 2002, TIFF has spent 25 years bringing world-class cinema to the heart of Transylvania. This year’s milestone edition opens with 3 Days in September (3 zile în septembrie), directed by festival founder Tudor Giurgiu, a fitting tribute to the vision that started it all. The festival will also welcome international guests including Italian screen legend Ornella Muti, British director Ben Wheatley, and actor Sam Riley.
What Makes TIFF Special
TIFF stands out for its bold programming — a mix of world premieres, provocative arthouse films, and crowd-pleasing international features. The competitive programs spotlight first and second-time filmmakers alongside established voices, creating a launchpad for emerging talent. Beyond screenings, the festival hosts workshops, masterclasses, and industry networking events through its Romanian Days program, connecting local filmmakers with international distributors and producers.
Cluj-Napoca Comes Alive
For ten days, the entire city of Cluj-Napoca transforms into a cinematic playground. Open-air screenings in historic squares, rooftop parties, and pop-up events draw tens of thousands of visitors from across Romania and beyond. The festival’s free outdoor program makes cinema accessible to everyone, while the indoor venues showcase carefully curated selections across multiple competitive categories.
More Than Movies
TIFF has become a cultural institution that extends far beyond its June run. Through TIFF Unlimited, the festival streams select films year-round, and its educational programs bring film literacy to schools and communities across Romania. The 25th edition affirms the festival’s mission: to champion bold, subversive storytelling that challenges and entertains.
If you’re in Romania this June, TIFF is an unforgettable cultural experience — a celebration of 25 years of putting Romanian cinema on the world map. Whether you catch a screening in person or follow along online through TIFF Unlimited, this anniversary edition is one for the history books.