The Drama International Short Film Festival has been running since 1974 and is one of the oldest and most respected short film festivals in Europe. Held every September, it screens hundreds of films from around the world and awards the Golden Alexander and Silver Alexander prizes. Greek and international filmmakers treat a nomination here seriously — the festival has helped launch careers and is considered a qualifying event for the Academy Awards short film category.
During festival week, Drama transforms: screenings run across several venues in the city centre, and the town fills with filmmakers and film students. If your visit coincides with September, it is well worth attending — tickets are inexpensive, the programme is eclectic, and the atmosphere is energetic in a way that the city does not otherwise manage.