CineLibri 2026 Opens in Sofia, Celebrating the Connection Between Books and Film

Literature and cinema are coming together once again in Bulgaria as the 12th CineLibri International Book and Film Festival opens its doors to audiences.

The festival began on 15 October 2026 at the National Palace of Culture in Sofia, under the motto Civilization of the Spectacle.

The annual event celebrates the relationship between written stories and their interpretation on the big screen, bringing international cinema and literary culture to Bulgarian audiences.

From the Written Page to the Screen

Books and films tell stories in different ways. A novel can explore a character’s inner world through language, while cinema uses images, performances, music and sound to bring a story to life.

CineLibri places these creative approaches side by side, encouraging audiences to discover literary works through film adaptations and to explore the artistic choices involved in transforming a book into cinema.

The festival’s programme features productions associated with international film events, alongside national and world premieres.

An International Cultural Gathering

The 2026 edition runs from 15 October to 8 November in Sofia and six other Bulgarian cities.

Its opening ceremony at the National Palace of Culture was followed by the Bulgarian premiere of Ink, directed by Danny Boyle, which had opened the Venice Film Festival earlier in the year.

The festival’s wider programme brings together films connected with different literary traditions, countries and generations of writers.

Culture Beyond the Screen

Events such as CineLibri help create opportunities for audiences to engage with literature and cinema in a shared cultural setting. They also bring attention to cinemas, cultural venues, translators, publishers, filmmakers and the wider creative sector.

For international visitors, festivals offer another way to experience Bulgaria’s cultural life beyond its historic landmarks and natural attractions.

For local audiences, they provide an opportunity to discover stories from Bulgaria and around the world.

Celebrating the Power of Stories

CineLibri’s continued presence in Bulgaria demonstrates the appeal of bringing different art forms together. By connecting readers, film lovers and creative professionals, the festival helps keep literature and cinema at the centre of contemporary cultural life.

The 2026 edition offers audiences several weeks to explore the meeting point between books, ideas and the moving image.

Sources: Bulgarian News Agency — 12th CineLibri International Book and Film Festival Opens in Sofia; Official CineLibri website.