Lapinlahti Film Festival

Lapinlahti Film Festival is a celebration of shared cinematic experiences. It takes place 21-23 August 2026 in Helsinki, Finland, in the maritime environment of the Lapinlahti area and nearby cinemas. Today a cultural center, the historical Lapinlahti Hospital building served as a psychiatric hospital between 1841 and 2008. Inspired by the history of the site, our slogan “Cinema Works Wonders – Elokuva tekee hyvää” reflects our belief in the transformative power of cinema to foster mental well-being, community, and new perspectives.

The Nordic Frames Shorts Competition is open to Nordic short films up to 30 minutes in length produced within the last two years. In addition to the open call for short films, the festival presents a thematic programme of international feature films built around an annually changing theme. All screenings and festival events are free of charge.