Canterbury Film Awards 2025: A Must-See Film Festival in the Heart of Canterbury

If you're searching for things to do in Canterbury, live screenings, or local film festivals worth attending, the Canterbury Film Awards should be at the very top of your list. Returning on 19 September 2025, this fast-growing independent film festival brings together filmmakers, film lovers, and curious locals for an unforgettable night celebrating the very best emerging talent.

Whether you’re a local resident, a student, a filmmaker, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new stories on the big screen, the Canterbury Film Awards offers a vibrant cultural experience right in the centre of the city.

⭐ What Are the Canterbury Film Awards?

The Canterbury Film Awards is an annual independent film festival showcasing short films from rising filmmakers across the UK and beyond. Now entering its second year, the festival is quickly becoming one of Canterbury’s standout cultural events, offering a platform for creative voices and a unique cinematic experience for audiences.

Held in a welcoming 18+ venue in Canterbury, the festival features:

• Live film screenings

• Q&As with filmmakers

• Audience awards

• Networking opportunities

• An exciting mix of genres, from drama and comedy to horror, documentary, and experimental film

  
  

It’s an event created by filmmakers, for film lovers, and it’s already building a reputation as one of the most engaging creative nights out in the area.

🎬 Why Attend a Film Festival in Canterbury?

If you’re looking for events in Canterbury, the city has a rich creative history—and the Canterbury Film Awards adds something fresh and contemporary to the scene.

Here’s why visitors love it:

1. Discover New Films First

Many of the films screened are festival exclusives or early showings, giving audiences a chance to see upcoming talent before it hits the wider circuit.

2. Support Independent Filmmaking

Your ticket directly supports independent artists and helps keep a new creative tradition alive in Canterbury.

3. A Unique Night Out

Instead of another night at a chain cinema, enjoy a carefully curated lineup of shorts, meet the people who made them, and be part of a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.

4. Perfect for Students and Creatives

If you study or work in film, media, or the arts, this is one of the best networking opportunities in Kent.