For regular and first-time visitors, we’ve put together a summary of everything that’s new at the festival this year.
A special preview premiere of Pedro Almodóvar’s new film, Bitter Christmas, will be held on Wednesday, July 1, at the Municipal Theater in Mariánské Lázně to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the festival’s founding, when the first films of the newly established festival premiered in this West Bohemian town.
This year, the red carpet will be laid out over a larger and longer area, giving fans more space and a better view of the movie stars. The carpet will run directly along the Thermal Hotel, and delegations will enter from the left side (as viewed toward the hotel). On the right side, spectators will be able to enter the Grand Hall. This year will also feature two new female hosts and two new male hosts who will provide commentary as the delegations arrive—Saša Michailidis, Zuzana Tvarůžková, Monika Zavřelová, and Petr Koubek.
This year’s unique new release is a festival fragrance called The Cinephile. The limited-edition scent was created by the Czech brand Alexmonhart specifically for the 60th edition. It is inspired by the atmosphere of the cinema, Karlovy Vary, and the moment just before the lights go down in the auditorium. Perfumer Michael Ælfrić Nordstrand, winner of the prestigious Art and Olfaction Award 2025, contributed to its composition.
The alcoholic drink Don Red Carpet, which combines the flavors of rum, pomegranate, lemon juice, soda, Fernet-Stock, and fresh thyme, was created by Brand Ambassador Marek Štochl.
The non-alcoholic, limited-edition Mattoni60 cocktail was created especially for this year’s anniversary. The recipe was developed by ALMA restaurant head bartender Pavel Sochor, who drew inspiration from this year’s festival scent by designer Alex Monhart.
The 60th edition of the festival will feature a unique musical program called the Vary Special Show. The musical concept was created by DJ and producer NobodyListen, who will bring together prominent figures from the contemporary Czech music scene across genres and generations in a single evening—including several musicians hailing directly from Karlovy Vary. The opening concert will begin at 10:45 p.m. in front of the Thermal Hotel and is free of charge.
Festival Pass+ Smart is a digital pass designed for film fans who prefer to enjoy the festival without the biggest crowds of the first weekend. The pass is valid for the 6 days of the festival following the first weekend (i.e., July 6–11, 2026). It offers the convenience of online reservations, the chance to get into the theater even without a ticket, free admission to KVIFF Talks, and other benefits and a gift package, just as the Festival Pass+ does.
This new, affordable accommodation near the Thermal Hotel offers simple and practical facilities with a 24-hour front desk. Capacity is limited to 50 guests per night. More information about amenities and prices can be found here.
A photography exhibition will commemorate the festival’s rich history, focusing primarily on the lesser-documented period of its origins, the atmosphere of the pre-revolutionary years, and key moments and guests. On thirty panels located in the outdoor space between the iconic festival venues—the Pupp and Thermal hotels—visitors will have the opportunity to symbolically walk through the festival’s transformations over time.
This unique collection of videos was created to mark the festival’s 80th anniversary and its 60th edition. It traces interesting moments in the festival’s history through archival footage and legendary festival moments. You can watch the complete video series now on KVIFF.TV.
This year, the Out of the Past program section is dedicated to films from previous editions of the Karlovy Vary Film Festival that are closely tied to its history as milestones crucial to the festival’s identity and reputation.
This year, for the first time, the terrace at the Thermal Hotel is opening its doors to the public. You’ll find plenty of fun attractions here, such as the McLaren F1 Mastercard Team show car and a professional simulator, as well as a chill-out zone with a view of Karlovy Vary. The terrace is open daily from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.
A space created for the 60th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, where you’ll find stylish clothing, light refreshments, and can even create a unique postcard as a keepsake of the festival. The booth is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
First-hand brews throughout the year.
Be among the first to learn about upcoming events and other news. We only send the newsletter when we have something to say.
