International Vampire Film & Arts Festival

Celebrating the ancient Celtic legend of the Abhartach—the Irish vampire said to have inspired Bram Stoker's *Dracula* and recently referenced in the Oscar-winning *Sinners*—the 7th International Vampire Film & Arts Festival (IVFAF) will take place in the historic walled city of Derry, Northern Ireland, from 23–26 June 2027.

Submissions are now open in the following categories:

* Feature Films
* Short Films
* Screenplays

Naturally, all entries must embrace the vampire theme.

From Bram Stoker to Anne Rice, from Nosferatu and the classic Hammer films to Twilight, Sinners and beyond, the vampire remains the world's most enduring and influential horror icon, transcending film to shape television, literature, theatre, gaming, music and popular culture.

The International Vampire Film & Arts Festival is the world's only event dedicated entirely to vampire culture and storytelling, bringing together filmmakers, authors, artists, academics, performers and fans from across the globe. Over four unforgettable days, IVFAF presents an immersive programme of film premieres, book launches, author readings, theatrical performances, exhibitions, workshops, seminars, masterclasses, networking events and, naturally, a few unforgettable parties.

We've moved our coffins from our long-time home in the medieval citadel of Sighișoara, Transylvania, to Derry, Northern Ireland—a city whose rich folklore leads us back to the very origins of the vampire myth in the legend of the Abhartach.

The festival will showcase world premieres alongside celebrated classics, with filmmaker Q&As, expert panels, literary events, industry discussions and exclusive networking opportunities for creators working across every corner of vampire media.

Whether you're a filmmaker, screenwriter, author, performer, publisher, producer, academic or devoted fan of the undead, IVFAF offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of vampire storytelling in all its forms.

As Bram Stoker himself wrote:

"Welcome to my house. Come freely. Go safely; and leave something of the happiness you bring."

Our vision is simple: to establish IVFAF as the world's premier meeting place for the vampire industry—a unique international marketplace where filmmakers, writers, producers, performers, publishers, distributors, festivals, funders and audiences can discover new work, forge lasting collaborations and ensure that the vampire continues to thrive for generations to come.