23rd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival

The 23rd Golden Apricot Yerevan International Film Festival takes place in Yerevan, Armenia, from July 13 to July 19, transforming the city into a hub for leading filmmakers, actors, and cinema professionals. Recognized as one of the region's premier cultural events, the festival showcases acclaimed films from around the world and highlights Armenia's growing role in the international film community.

The festival program includes feature-length, documentary, and short films in both competition and special screenings, with many selected works having premiered at major international festivals. Beyond film presentations, the event hosts filmmaker discussions, master classes, and industry events aimed at connecting Armenian cinema with the global film community. The 23rd edition's theme is "Be a Poem," inviting audiences to experience cinema beyond the screen.

Notable moments include the world premiere of "Arto's Country," directed by Armenian filmmaker Tamara Stepanyan. The festival presented its Master Award to Austrian filmmaker Jessica Hausner and the Parajanov Thaler Award to French cinematographer Bruno Delbonnel. The opening ceremony featured a live improvisation by Grammy-nominated jazz star Ibrahim Maalouf, honoring the 100th anniversary of "Namus," a landmark work of early Armenian cinema. Approximately 90 films from 40 countries are featured, with nearly 200 international guests attending the festival.