Karlovy Vary International Film Festival marks 60th anniversary with historic opening

The 60th edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) begins its anniversary week on July 1 with a preview screening of Pedro Almodóvar’s new film “Bitter Christmas” in Mariánské Lázně, the spa town where the festival was first held in 1946. The official opening night takes place on July 3 in Karlovy Vary, featuring a free concert by DJ NobodyListen and the first-ever drone show that replaces the traditional fireworks display.

For the jubilee the festival has expanded its infrastructure: a longer red carpet, a new public terrace, the BADEN‑powered by Visa club, an affordable hostel near the Thermal Hotel and a Zalando booth. The historic exhibition KVIFF 60/80 (1946–2026) and a short‑video series trace the event’s eight‑decade legacy.

A star‑studded programme includes classic screenings such as “The Graduate” with Dustin Hoffman, new works like the Bulgarian cinema showcase, the historical drama “Pramen” starring Aňa Geislerová, and the award‑winning Polish film “Domovina”. Czech designers dominate the red‑carpet fashion, with outfits by Boris Král, Radka Sirková and Zuzana Kubíčková.

The city anticipates tens of thousands of visitors and has prepared 1 200 official parking spaces, supplemented by the EasyPark app that shows real‑time availability. Police warnings urge drivers to use designated lots to avoid fines.

Overall, the festival combines cinematic premieres, concerts, exhibitions and extensive public programmes, turning Karlovy Vary into a nine‑day hub of international film culture.