Chichester International Film Festival returns for 2026 with iconic open air screenings
The Chichester International Film Festival, one of the South Coast's most anticipated cultural events, is returning this summer with a packed programme of extraordinary cinema and live events. Running from 7 - 23 August, this year's Festival promises to be a true celebration of cinema with an ambitious programme featuring exclusive premieres, dynamic film screenings, live music, film talks and much more.
The Festival will open with its immensely popular open air screenings, set against the picturesque backdrop of Chichester's Priory Park. This year's line-up promises something truly special, with five cinematic classics announced: the 1993 blockbuster Jurassic Park, the timeless romantic comedy Pretty Woman, the heart-warming tale of Babe, the 2025 hit film Song Sung Blue, and Star Wars: A New Hope, a rare opportunity to experience the original 1977 Star Wars adventure on the big screen.
While the complete Festival programme is yet to be announced, Walter Francisco, Festival Director, has teased a diverse and exciting line-up of themes for this year.
Our 2026 programme celebrates the variety and creativity of fantastic cinema, comments Walter.
From treasured screen adaptations and tributes to legendary performers, to a dedicated strand of music films and live music events, this year's Festival offers something for every film lover. We're also delighted to present outstanding international cinema, educational film talks and an exciting selection of UK and world premieres. We can't wait to welcome audiences to Chichester this summer for what promises to be an exceptional Festival.
Open Air Screenings:
· Star Wars: A New Hope - Friday 7 August, 7.45pm
· Babe - Saturday 8 August, 5.00pm
· Pretty Women - Saturday 8 August, 8.00pm
· Jurassic Park - Sunday 9 August, 4.30pm
· Song Sung Blue - Sunday 9 August, 8.00pm
The Festival will once again welcome host venues across the region, including The Windmill in Littlehampton, and new relationships with CineVic in Arundel and Picturedrome in Bognor as well as the return of The Lumiere pop-up cinema at New Park.
The Chichester International Film Festivals open air screenings would not be possible without the support of partners and 2026 sponsor, The Graphic Design House.
The full programme will be announced on 24 July 2026. Tickets for the open air screenings are available to purchase now at chichesterfilmfestival.co.uk.
