Founded in 1964 by the Tunisian Federation of Amateur Filmmakers (FTCA), FIFAK was built on the idea of democratizing filmmaking—making it accessible to all, regardless of professional training or background.
FIFAK focuses primarily on non-commercial, independent, and amateur cinema—films made outside of industry pressures, often with limited budgets but powerful messages. Over the decades, it has become a springboard for countless filmmakers who have later entered professional cinema.
Short fiction
Documentary
Experimental film
Animation
National and international competitions
Each year, over 200 films from more than 30 countries are screened, with a strong representation from Tunisia, the Arab world, Africa, and Europe.
The festival is held in Kélibia, a charming coastal town in northeastern Tunisia known for its fortress overlooking the sea. The screenings take place in an open-air amphitheater, offering a truly magical cinema experience under the stars, with the waves of the Mediterranean nearby.
Atmosphere: Bohemian, artistic, and youthful
Main venue: Amphithéâtre plein air de Kélibia
Audience: Mix of local youth, artists, journalists, filmmakers, and international visitors
FIFAK doesn’t just showcase films—it celebrates and rewards boldness, originality, and authenticity. Awards are given by juries made up of critics, filmmakers, and festival organizers.
Major awards include:
Grand Prix FIFAK
Best Fiction Film
Best Documentary
Jury Prize
Audience Choice Award
In recent years, there has also been growing attention to themes such as:
Climate change and environmental justice
Gender identity and equality
Political resistance and human rights
Cultural heritage and memory
FIFAK is more than just film screenings—it's an educational and collaborative platform.
🎓 Workshops: Screenwriting, editing, directing, mobile filmmaking
💬 Panels & Masterclasses: With renowned international directors and critics
🤝 Networking: A meeting point for emerging talents and mentors
🎶 Nightlife & Music: DJ sets, beach gatherings, and cultural nights
It's where young artists and cinephiles come to learn, express, and connect.
FIFAK has always had a mission of resistance and cultural empowerment. Under authoritarian rule in the past, the festival was a safe haven for political and social expression. Today, it continues to be a free, inclusive space for creativity, social critique, and youth empowerment.
Launch the careers of influential Tunisian directors
Spread awareness of pan-African cinema
Promote cultural exchange through cinema
Empower young women and rural filmmakers
Defend freedom of expression
FIFAK usually takes place in August and runs for about a week. It's open to the public and most events are free or very affordable. Attendees can camp nearby or stay in local hostels, hotels, or guest houses.
Location: Kélibia, Nabeul Governorate
Dates: Usually mid-to-late August
Website: ftca.tn (official site of the FTCA)
FIFAK isn’t just a film festival—it's an experience. It’s where passion meets purpose, where young people with cameras and dreams gather to share stories that might never otherwise be told. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a cinephile, or a curious traveler, attending FIFAK is a journey into the soul of Tunisia’s artistic spirit.
