* Winner: Film Festival of the Year 2025 & 2026 *
(Manchester & North West Prestige Awards)

LYTHAM INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2026

SEPTEMBER 3rd - 6th

Bringing you the best in independent cinema from around the world.

LYIFF returns for its biggest year yet — four days of screenings, masterclasses, workshops, networking events and celebrations of independent cinema across Lytham. With a bold, diverse Official Selection and our most ambitious industry programme to date, LYIFF 2026 brings filmmakers, audiences and industry guests together for an unforgettable festival experience.

BIGGER. BRIGHTER. BOLDER

WHY ATTEND LYIFF 2026

• Discover award‑winning films before general release
• Meet filmmakers, actors and industry guests
• Attend exclusive masterclasses and workshops
• Enjoy a full weekend of cinema in the heart of Lytham
• Be part of a growing, award‑winning cultural event

WHAT'S NEW FOR 2026

• Expanded industry programme with six masterclasses & workshops
• New hands‑on practical FX session
• New casting masterclass
• Opening Ceremony hosted by Ken Webster
• Larger Official Selection
• New central Lytham venues
• More networking events for filmmakers and actors

Full Programme

View the full digital programme here:
LYIFF 2026 Programme

Tickets

• Opening Ceremony Ticket — Thursday 3rd
• Day Pass — Friday 4th
• Day Pass — Saturday 5th
• Day Pass — Sunday 6th
• 3‑Day Festival Pass (Fri–Sun)

New Venues for 2026

This year, the festival takes place across three central Lytham venues:

• Lytham Institute — 27 Clifton Street, FY8 5EP
• Lytham Assembly Rooms — Dicconson Terrace, FY8 5JY
• Lytham Methodist Church — 6 Park Street, FY8 5LU

All screenings, talks, masterclasses, and workshops will be held across these venues.
Full details of what’s on where is included in the LYIFF 2026 Programme.

Each venue is just a short walk from the others, allowing audiences to explore the town while enjoying a diverse programme of films and events.

Professional Cinema Experience in Every Venue

Although LYIFF has moved from a traditional theatre setting, every festival venue will be transformed into a bespoke cinema space for the duration of the event.

We are installing:

• Professional‑grade digital projection
• Large cinema screens
• High‑quality sound systems
• Full blackout and controlled lighting
• Optimised seating layouts for the best viewing experience

Each space is purpose‑built for LYIFF to ensure a true cinema experience — not a TV, not a basic projector, but a fully equipped, professional screening environment.

Your ticket gives you access to premium‑quality cinema across all festival venues.

Wristband Collection (Important)

All ticket holders must collect their festival wristband from the Ticket Hub at Lytham Institute, open from 9am each day.

Your wristband is required for entry to all screenings, talks, and masterclasses included in your ticket type.
This information will also appear on your ticket confirmation.

GALA OPENING EVENT

Thursday 3rd September - 18:00

Kick off Lytham International 2026 in grand style with a Gala Opening Night that promises charm, sparkle, and cinematic brilliance.

Enjoy a curated selection of this year’s standout short films, personally introduced by the filmmakers. Immerse yourself in exceptional storytelling and engage directly with the artists behind the screen.

Guests will be welcomed with a glass of champagne on arrival, setting the tone for an elegant and celebratory evening. 

Hosted by legendary comedian and Fylde Coast entertainment veteran, Ken Webster.

On the night:
🥂 Champagne reception
🌟 Red carpet welcome & photo ops
🎬 Filmmaker introductions & live Q&As
🎤 Host to be announced

A separate ticket is required for this event.

MAIN FESTIVAL

Friday 4th – Sunday 6th September, 10am–11pm Daily

Experience three days of world‑class independent cinema, thought‑provoking documentaries, gripping thrillers, heartfelt comedies, and bold new voices from around the globe.

Your Day Pass or 3‑Day Pass includes:

• All screenings across all venues
• Talks and panel discussions
• Masterclasses and workshops
• Networking opportunities with filmmakers and industry guests

Whether you’re a film lover or a filmmaker, LYIFF offers a vibrant, welcoming space to discover stories, meet creatives, and celebrate the art of cinema.

Masterclasses & Workshops

The Life of a Stunt Performer — Ryan Green

From Marvel to Star Wars, Ryan Green has been part of some of the world’s biggest franchises. In this dynamic session, he lifts the curtain on the stunt industry — how performers break in, what the work truly demands, and the realities of life on set when the action gets intense. A rare chance to learn from someone who’s lived it.

Independent Filmmaking — Rebecca Rose

Award‑winning filmmaker Rebecca Rose shares her journey through the world of independent cinema, offering honest, practical advice for emerging filmmakers. From getting your foot in the door to elevating your craft, Rebecca explores what it really takes to build a career and become a stronger, more effective storyteller.

Screenplay Pitch & Story Workshop — Festival Judges

Bring your ideas and put them to the test. In this interactive workshop, members of the LYIFF judging panel offer direct feedback on story concepts, pitches, and narrative structure. Ideal for writers looking to refine their voice, sharpen their pitch, and gain insight from industry professionals.

Screenplay Pitch & Story Workshop — Festival Judges

Bring your ideas and put them to the test. In this interactive workshop, members of the LYIFF judging panel offer direct feedback on story concepts, pitches and narrative structure. Ideal for writers looking to refine their voice and sharpen their pitch.

Inside the Casting Room — Emma Crompton

Acting coach and casting director Emma Crompton reveals what really happens in the casting room — from both sides of the table. Learn how filmmakers should approach casting directors, what they’re looking for and how actors can prepare and present themselves with confidence.

From Idea to Impact — Will Jewell

BAFTA‑winning filmmaker Will Jewell shares how to craft stories with impact — and get them funded. A must‑attend session for filmmakers looking to develop resonant narratives and navigate the world of funding and festivals.

Hands‑On Horror FX — Jayson Barnard

Step inside the world of practical horror effects with Jayson Barnard of Horror Craft UK. Learn how to create prosthetics, build severed limbs and achieve convincing gore on a budget in this hands‑on workshop.

Closing Ceremony & Awards

Sunday 6th September — The Island Cinema, FY8 1LS

Celebrate the best of LYIFF 2026 as we honour outstanding films and filmmakers.

The Closing Ceremony is included with the 3‑Day Festival Pass.
Spaces are limited and entry is on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
No refunds are available if the venue reaches capacity.

For Film Lovers

Discover world‑class cinema from both established and emerging talents before anyone else. From gripping dramas to uplifting comedies, there’s something for every taste.

For Filmmakers

Connect with fellow creatives, discover new collaborators, and enhance your skills through masterclasses, workshops, and networking events.

Talks, Events & Panels

Open to all attendees, offering unique insights and perspectives from industry experts and creative minds.

Support the Festival

LYIFF is a volunteer‑run, not‑for‑profit festival. If you or your organisation would like to support the festival through sponsorship or advertising, please contact: enquire [at] lyiff.co.uk

Full Programme

Full Programme: LYIFF 2026 Programme

Tickets for the Lytham International Film Festival are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or significantly changed.
Refunds, if issued, will cover the face value of the ticket only.
Booking fees, payment processing charges, and donations are non-refundable.