The 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival officially opened on Tuesday, drawing filmmakers, industry insiders, and cinema lovers from across the globe to the French Riviera. Running till May 24, the renowned festival continues its tradition of celebrating international cinema while offering an exclusive platform for networking, screenings, and film deals. If you are interested in experiencing the magic firsthand, here’s a comprehensive guide how to attend the Cannes film festival, along with
How to attend the Cannes 2025 Film Festival?
Attendance at the Cannes Film Festival is restricted to accredited participants, making accreditation the first and most essential step for attendees. For 2025, the application window opened on February 3 and officially closed on April 15. A late application period extended until April 1, requiring a non-refundable fee of €224 (Rs 21,371), which includes a €20 environmental contribution.
Categories of Accreditation
The festival offers several types of accreditation tailored to different profiles within the film community:
Film Industry Professionals: This category includes directors, actors, producers, technicians, and other professionals working in cinema. Accredited individuals receive access to official screenings at the Palais des Festivals and to events at the Marché du Film, the festival’s industry-focused marketplace.
Cinephiles Accreditation: Designed for young cinema enthusiasts aged 18 to 28, this program allows access to screenings at the Cinéum and selected partner venues. Applicants must be affiliated with a recognised film school or association.
Marché du Film Accreditation: Catering to industry professionals involved in distribution, sales, production, and acquisitions, this pass provides access to market screenings and networking events within the business sector of the festival.
Who can attend the Cannes film festival?
While the festival maintains an exclusive atmosphere, access is granted to individuals involved in cinema-related professions. These include actors, directors, producers, journalists, publicists, distributors, and others engaged in the global film ecosystem. Admission is strictly regulated and contingent on proof of professional credentials or affiliation.
Fees and sustainability contribution
Although general accreditation is free of charge, a mandatory environmental contribution of €20 (excluding VAT) — totalling €24 with tax — is applied to each application. The fee supports the festival’s ongoing sustainability initiatives, including carbon offset programs and eco-conscious event planning.
Access to screenings
Screenings take place across various venues, with the Palais des Festivals and the Cinéum among the most prominent. Accredited attendees can book screening tickets online, with reservations opening between four days and one hour prior to each film. Access levels vary depending on the type of accreditation held.
Although the accreditation process for the 2025 edition has ended, aspiring attendees can stay updated through the official Festival de Cannes website –