Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival: Cinema in the Heart of Palma
A celebration of storytelling beneath the Cathedral’s glow
Each October, the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival (EMIFF) brings a week of cinema, creativity, and Mediterranean glamour to Palma.
Red carpets roll out along Born Avenue, directors mingle with locals over tapas, and open-air screenings illuminate the Parc de la Mar, right below the Cathedral.
Since its debut in 2012, the festival has grown into one of Europe’s most respected boutique film events — a crossroads for filmmakers, artists, and cinephiles who love cinema with soul.
🎬 What to Expect at the Palma Film Festival
The festival celebrates independent film in all forms — from feature debuts and international documentaries to animated shorts and experimental art films.
- Dates: Around 21–29 October 2025
- Location: Venues across Palma including Teatre Principal, CineCiutat, Parc de la Mar, and Es Baluard Museum
- Highlights: Screenings, industry panels, networking, and outdoor cinema nights
- Founder: Sandra Seeling Lipski
- Official website
🏛️ Main Venues & Screenings
| Venue | What to Expect | Vibe |
| Teatre Principal | Opening & closing galas with red carpet events | Historic and elegant |
| CineCiutat | Palma’s independent cinema hub | Alternative, creative, community feel |
| Parc de la Mar | Open-air screenings under the Cathedral | Magical, Mediterranean atmosphere |
| Es Baluard Museum | Art films, installations & networking sessions | Contemporary & cultural |
🌆 Festival Atmosphere
During festival week, Palma feels alive with conversation and creativity.
Morning industry talks at Es Baluard, film premieres at Teatre Principal, rooftop after-parties at boutique hotels — and everywhere, that mix of cinema, sea air, and Mediterranean rhythm.
Locals and visitors blend seamlessly; the city becomes a film set in itself.
🍴 Where to Eat & Drink
| Place | What to Expect | Best For |
| El Camino | Stylish bar with small plates and cinematic interiors | After-screening dinners |
| Bar Flexas | Quirky, old-school Palma favourite | Local energy and late-night drinks |
| Patron Lunares | Creative brasserie in Santa Catalina | Industry lunches or informal meetings |
More dining ideas: Try modern wine bars in Sa Gerreria, or seafood terraces by Palma Marina for a quiet moment between screenings.
🏨 Where to Stay
| Hotel | What to Expect | Best For |
| Hotel Cappuccino (5★) | Central Old Town location near Teatre Principal | Luxury with cinematic flair |
| Nakar Hotel (4★) | Design-led, rooftop pool & bar | Style-conscious travellers |
| Hotel Saratoga (4★) | Close to Born Avenue and festival venues | Walkable and mid-range comfort |
🚶 Getting Around Palma
- On foot: Most venues are within 15 minutes of each other in the Old Town.
- By bike/scooter: Fastest option between CineCiutat and the seafront.
- By taxi: Handy for evening galas or afterparties.
Palma’s compact layout makes it perfect for festival-hopping without needing a car.
💡 Local Tips
- Book early: Screenings and hotels fill up quickly.
- Subtitles: Most films are subtitled in English or Spanish.
- Dress code: Smart-casual; no need for tuxedos unless attending galas.
- Network naturally: Palma’s café culture makes every terrace a potential meeting spot.
🎥 Palma Film Festival vs. Other Cultural Events
| Category | Cinema a la Fresca | Nit de l’Art | Palma Film Festival |
| Season | Summer (July–Aug) | Autumn (Sept) | Autumn (Oct) |
| Focus | Open-air screenings | Contemporary art | Independent cinema |
| Setting | Parc de la Mar | Palma Old Town | Theatres & outdoor venues |
| Atmosphere | Relaxed & social | Artistic & lively | Professional yet creative |
Can anyone attend?
Yes — the festival is open to the public. Tickets and day passes are sold online and at venue counters.
Are all films in English?
Many are; others include English or Spanish subtitles.
Is there a red carpet event?
Yes — both the opening and closing galas at Teatre Principal feature red carpets and special guests.
🎞️ History & Did You Know?
The festival began in 2012 with a modest 25 films and one screen. Founder Sandra Seeling Lipski, a German filmmaker living in Los Angeles and Mallorca, wanted to bridge the island’s local creativity with the global film scene.
By 2024, EMIFF featured over 150 films from more than 40 countries, welcoming stars like Mads Mikkelsen and Melissa Leo. The event’s motto — “Bridging Cultures – Bridging People” — reflects both its diversity and its island spirit.
Fun fact: some open-air screenings at Parc de la Mar use the same location as Palma’s Cinema a la Fresca — making it a year-round stage for storytelling under the stars.
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