Founded in 2003, IN THE PALACE International Film Festival is dedicated to short films and audiovisual arts. Originating as a competitive forum for student films, it is now a recognized platform for expression of both young artists and experienced professionals. It is the only professional short film festival in Bulgaria.

IN THE PALACE is a Goya Awards qualifying festival, Student Academy Awards® qualifying festival, and an Academy Awards®/OSCAR® qualifying festival for shorts in the categories of Best Animation, Best Fiction, Best Documentary, and Best National Film. IN THE PALACE is a member of the Short Film Conference.

IN THE PALACE takes place last weekend of June to first weekend of July annually and presents:

• International and national, professional and student competitive programs of fiction, documentary, animation and experimental films
• ON FOCUS film programs & screenings
• Q & A sessions
• FILMER FORGE industry program: panels, industry meetings, pitching training and sessions, an interdisciplinary conference on short film, and a range of opportunities for formal and informal networking.
• THE SHORT FILM: GENRE SUI GENERIS – annual science conference on she short film genre since 2018
• Video library
• Film events and initiatives for general audience
• Parties

IN THE PALACE offers a range of events, activities, and programs for both – local and international film industry and audience. IN THE PALACE is a cultural meeting point of film industry, artists, students, educational institutions, and the general public, that provides access to latest trends, developments, and learning in the arts and culture through screenings, training and interdisciplinary exchange.