DOCK is an exciting international festival dedicated to the celebration of historical documentary cinema, designed and curated by some of the most respected names in the Bulgarian film industry. This prestigious event will take place in the stunning coastal city of Bourgas, located along the picturesque Black Sea Coast. The festival enjoys the generous support of the Municipality of Bourgas and the National Film Center of Bulgaria, which underscores its significance and commitment to promoting the rich tapestry of documentary filmmaking.
Bourgas is a city renowned for its breathtaking seaside views and vibrant atmosphere, boasts a history that spans centuries. It is not only one of Bulgaria's oldest towns but also one of its most culturally and socially developed cities. With its diverse cultural heritage, historic sites, and commitment to the arts, Bourgas provides an inspiring setting for filmmakers and audiences alike to engage with stories that shape our understanding of the world.
The DOCK festival is scheduled to take place from September 17 to September 22, 2025. The event will kick off with an official opening ceremony on September 17, setting the stage for a rich program that will capture the attention and imagination of documentary enthusiasts.

Attendees can look forward to the festival’s section that showcase the very best of historical documentaries:
Official Competition Program: This segment will feature a carefully curated selection of ten exceptional documentary titles, chosen through a rigorous selection process. These films will compete for top honors, showcasing innovative storytelling and profound historical insights that resonate across cultures and geographies.

Through engaging screenings, discussions, and networking opportunities, DOCK aims to foster dialogue among filmmakers, critics, and audience members, creating a dynamic atmosphere that encourages the exchange of ideas and perspectives. As such, this festival not only highlights the power of documentary filmmaking but also celebrates the stories that inspire change and understanding in our society. Join us for this remarkable event and immerse yourself in the captivating world of historical documentary cinema!

The grand prize for Official Competition Program of the DOCK festival is 2 000 BGN (1000 euros).

Official Competition Program /10 titles after the final selection/
Documentary movie submission has started.

1. The film must be completed after the 1st of September 2023.

2. The minimum duration is 45 minutes.

3. Historical events must play a key role in the story.

4. The Festival accepts only documentaries.

5. Films with a special method of screening, like 3D or VR glasses – are not accepted. DCP format is not supported for now.

6. The Festival accepts submissions via FilmFreeway only. We don’t accept physical submissions via post or e-mail (i.e., DVD, flash drive).

7. Films in a language other than English or Bulgarian must have subtitles in English.

8. Deadline for entries: August 1, 2025.

9. List of selected films: August 15, 2025.

10. The decisions of the Jury are final. The Festival will not inform about the criteria for selection.

11. Selected participants will be notified via e-mail. Information will appear on our website too.

12. Screening copy must be sent using online platforms with an option for downloading, such as YouTube.com, Vimeo.com, WeTransfer.com, Tranz.it, etc.

13. Recommended digital format for selected movies: MPEG4 / H.264 codec, HD 1920x1080, stereo.

14. Audience access is free.

15. Films that show extreme violence, hurt domestic or foreign laws, or contain pornographic content are not accepted.

16. By submitting the Film, you declaim that you have full copyright of the Film and you accept screenings of the film during the Festival. You grant to the Festival a non-exclusive license to use the Film in open-air screenings, indoor screenings, and for general advertising materials and other promotional materials.

17. The Festival may use the Film, information about Authors, pictures, or still-frames, in conjunction with an Internet site and social media for the advertisement purpose. Selected candidates must provide Press Kit for their project.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alexandre de Villeneuve

    History is a very important thing to understand the present and to build the future. International Documentary Historical Film Festival broadcast the best of history films. Thank you

    December 2022
  • Andrea Odezynska

    I am proud that my film, "Return Sasyk to the Sea" screened at DOCK international Documentary Historical Film Festival. DOCK festival programmers care about history. They organize an audience. They offer hospitality. Burgas is a beautiful town on the Black Sea. Love this festival!!!

    October 2022
  • Władysław Jurków

    A unique festival in Europe dedicated to historical films. In beautiful seaside Burgas, run by a group of dedicated professionals in an almost family atmosphere. I would definitely like to go back and experience this celebration of documentary filmmaking again.

    October 2019
  • Such a wonderful Festival!
    Organized with care, curated with passion, made with love.
    I am so honored to be in the Official Selection of your first edition... Congratulations to all the staff and I wish you a beautiful second year!

    October 2018