FILM FESTIVALS IN IRELAND THIS AUTUMN
Summer is officially over which means darker evenings, cooler temperatures and the proper Irish weather. With outdoor plans becoming a little less suitable, it’s the perfect time to swap the beach/park for the big screen.
Luckily, Ireland has a thriving film scene, with talented local and international filmmakers showcasing their work at festivals across the country throughout the autumn months.
We’ve shortlisted five film festivals in Ireland that you simply can’t miss this autumn. From independent gems and quirky documentaries to international cinema and homegrown talent, there’s something for every film lover.
Brazilian Film Festival in Ireland
We all know that Brazilians have become a vibrant part of Ireland’s cultural landscape in recent years, and what better way to discover more about this wonderful culture than through the magic of cinema?
The Brazilian Film Festival of Ireland is the very first festival of its kind in the country, offering Irish audiences a curated journey through Brazil’s rich and diverse cinematic landscape. From powerful stories and thought-provoking documentaries to vibrant celebrations of Brazilian life and culture, the festival is a chance to see Brazil through the eyes of its filmmakers.
A celebration of Brazilian cinema, culture and storytelling, right here in Ireland.
Dates: September 21st, 24h to 27th
Location: Different Locations in Dublin
Website: https://www.bffi.ie/
Kerry International Film Festival
We absolutely love Kerry and any excuse to head to this beautiful part of the country, we’re in! Naturally, Kerry International Film Festival (KIFF) had to make our list.
Held annually in Killarney, KIFF celebrates Irish and international features, documentaries and short films, championing diverse and unique storytelling.
With no dedicated arthouse or independent cinema currently in Killarney, KIFF gives audiences the chance to discover films they might otherwise never see on the big screen in Kerry.
Great films, a gorgeous setting, and the perfect excuse for an autumn trip to Kerry. What’s not to love?
Dates: October 15th to 18th
Location: Different Locations in Killarney
Website: https://kerryfilmfestival.com/
Belfast Film Festival
If you fancy heading north for a proper dose of cinema, Belfast Film Festival is well worth the trip. Celebrating its 26th edition in 2026, the festival brings together new, independent and classic cinema from Northern Ireland and around the world.
From short films and documentaries to international features, local talent and more experimental cinema, there’s plenty here for those who like their films a little outside the mainstream. The festival also has a strong focus on Northern Irish filmmakers and independent voices.
And with Belfast as your backdrop, it’s a pretty good excuse for an autumn city break, a few films, a pint afterwards.
Dates: October 29th to November 7th
Location: Different Locations in Belfast
Website: https://belfastfilmfestival.org/
Cork International Film Festival
One of the most popular film festivals of the country is back this year, Cork International Film Festival brings together some of the best Irish and international cinema, with a carefully curated programme spanning features, documentaries and shorts.
With a film festival tradition dating back to 1950, Cork has a long-standing place on the international cinema map. Today, the festival continues to champion bold filmmaking and new voices, connecting local audiences with stories from around the world.
And with three Oscar-accredited awards in 2026, there’s never been a better excuse to head to Cork, catch a few films and soak up the festival atmosphere.
Dates: November 12th to 22nd
Location: Different Locations in Cork
Website: https://www.corkfilmfest.org/
Waterford International Film Festival
Since 2007, Waterford International Film Festival (WIFF) has been championing filmmakers and emerging creative voices from Ireland and around the world.
The festival is all about short-form storytelling, with a diverse programme of dramas, documentaries, animation, experimental films, music videos, student work and cinematic photography.
With submissions arriving from across the globe, WIFF is a great opportunity to discover fresh, independent voices and stories from far beyond Ireland, all while enjoying a bit of Waterford along the way.
Dates: November 14th to 15th
Location: Different Locations in Waterford
Website: https://www.waterfordfilmfestival.net/
So, grab your coat, pick your favourite film festival and get ready for an autumn filled with great films, fascinating stories, and plenty of cinematic discoveries.