Film Festival "Razhdavitsa Film Fest"

Date: July 01-05, 2026
Location: Village of Razhdavitsa, Kyustendil Region, Bulgaria and all world.

Description:

The "Razhdavitsa Film Fest" is a unique event that combines the beauty of the Bulgarian village with important themes about abandoned places and ecology. Held in the picturesque village of Razhdavitsa, the festival aims to draw attention to the forgotten corners of Bulgaria and highlight the importance of environmental preservation.

Program:

Opening of the Festival:
Official ceremony and welcome by the organizers.
Screening of an opening film that explores the theme of abandoned villages and their revival.

Film Screenings:
Selected documentary and feature films focusing on abandoned places in Bulgaria, all world, and ecological issues.
Discussions with directors and eco-activists after each screening.

Master Classes:
Led by experienced directors and cinematographers who will share their knowledge and skills.
Topics such as directing, screenwriting, cinematography, and editing.

Workshops and Discussions:
Ecological workshops for children and adults, including recycling and sustainable practices.
Panel discussions with experts on the restoration of abandoned areas and environmental conservation.

Concert:
Evening concerts featuring Bulgarian folklore and contemporary musicians, contributing to the festive atmosphere of the festival.

Exhibition:
Photo exhibition of abandoned places in Bulgaria.
Installations by local and international artists interpreting the theme of ecology and village revival.

Demonstrations of Traditional Crafts:
Demonstrations of traditional Bulgarian crafts such as pottery, weaving, and wood carving.
Opportunities for visitors to participate and try them themselves.

Eco Market:
Local producers and artisans will offer their eco-friendly products and handmade items.
Presentation of organic foods and natural products.

Film Shooting in Razhdavitsa:
Creation of a special film shot in the village of Razhdavitsa, showcasing its charm and potential for tourism.
The filming process will be open for festival visitors to observe and participate in.

Tourism Video:
Production of a tourism video highlighting the beauty and attractions of Razhdavitsa and the surrounding region.
The video will aim to promote local tourism and cultural heritage.

Closing of the Festival:

Awarding the best films and initiatives.
Special screening of a film dedicated to the successes and challenges of ecology in Bulgaria.

Join us in the village of Razhdavitsa for eight days of inspiration, culture, and awareness towards the preservation of our nature and cultural heritage. The "Razhdavitsa Film Fest" is not just an event but a movement for the preservation of Bulgarian identity and natural beauty.

***🍴 Rajdavica Film Fest 2026 – “Flavors and Images” ***

The upcoming edition of the festival will dedicate a special section to films connected to gastronomy – stories where food is not just a background element, but a true protagonist.

We will dive into cinema where cooking, taste, and culinary traditions bring people together, ignite passions, preserve memories, and build bridges between cultures.

Expect an inspiring selection of films, open-air culinary screenings with tastings, discussions, and meetings with creators.

🎬 We invite filmmakers from around the world to submit their gastronomy-related films – documentary, feature, or short films that tell stories through flavors, traditions, and culinary culture.

🌿 Immerse yourself in “Flavors and Images” – where cinema and gastronomy meet in the heart of Razhdavitza.

"Golden Cherry" for Best Film.

1. Eligibility
Films must align with the themes of abandoned places in Bulgaria and/or environmental conservation.
All genres and formats are eligible, including documentary, feature, and short films.
Films must have been completed after January 1, 2024.
Submissions are open to filmmakers worldwide.
Films that are not in English or Bulgarian must include English subtitles.
2. Submission Guidelines
All films must be submitted exclusively via FilmFreeway.com, the festival’s official submission platform.
Each submission must include:
a completed online entry form,
a screener of the film,
and the applicable submission fee.
Multiple submissions are allowed; however, each film requires a separate entry form and submission fee.
Submission fees are non-refundable.
3. Selection Process
Films will be reviewed and selected by a selection committee composed of industry professionals and festival organizers.
Selected filmmakers will be notified via email by May 1, 2026.
The decisions of the selection committee are final and not subject to appeal.
4. Screening Formats
Accepted screening formats are:
DCP
Blu-ray
Digital files (MOV, MP4)
Filmmakers must provide a high-quality screening copy of their selected film by September 1, 2025.
5. Awards and Prizes
Awards will be presented in the following categories:
Best Documentary
Best Feature Film
Best Short Film
Audience Choice Award
Special Jury Prize
Winners will be announced during the Closing Ceremony on July 15, 2026.
Prizes may include trophies, certificates, and cash awards.
6. Filmmaker Attendance
Attendance at the festival is not mandatory, but filmmakers are strongly encouraged to attend.
Subject to availability and funding, the festival may provide accommodation and travel stipends for selected filmmakers.
7. Rights and Permissions
By submitting a film, the filmmaker confirms that they hold all necessary rights and permissions for public exhibition.
The festival reserves the right to use excerpts from submitted films for promotional and marketing purposes.
Filmmakers grant the festival permission to screen their film during the official festival dates.
8. Code of Conduct
All festival participants and attendees are expected to maintain a respectful, inclusive, and professional environment.
Harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated and may result in removal from the festival.
9. Liability
The festival is not responsible for any loss or damage to submitted materials.
Filmmakers are responsible for obtaining insurance for their screening copies, if desired.
10. Agreement
By submitting a film to Razhdavitsa Film Fest via FilmFreeway, the filmmaker agrees to comply with all festival rules and terms.
The festival reserves the right to modify these rules and terms at any time.

*ENGLISH SUBTITLES REQUIRED*