37th Carthage Film Festival (Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage 2026)

The Carthage Film Festival (Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage, JCC) is one of the oldest film festivals in Africa and the Arab world. Its 37th edition takes place in Tunis from 12 to 19 December 2026, the year the festival marks 60 years since its creation. It suits film lovers, students, critics and professionals planning a December trip to Tunis.

About the Carthage Film Festival

Founded in 1966, the JCC focuses on Arab and African cinema. Its official competitions cover feature fiction films, feature documentaries and short films, alongside a section for emerging filmmakers, retrospectives, tributes and industry events. Screenings draw large local audiences, and queues outside cinemas on Avenue Habib Bourguiba are part of the festival's atmosphere.

The festival is organised with the Centre National du Cinéma et de l'Image (CNCI). The official website publishes news, the regulations, the guest country of honour and, closer to the dates, the full screening programme and accreditation details.

the Carthage Film Festival 2026 dates and venue

The festival's official website states that the 37th edition will be held from 12 to 19 December 2026. Expect an opening ceremony on the first evening and an awards ceremony at the end of the week.

Screenings take place in cinemas and cultural venues across central Tunis, many of them along or near Avenue Habib Bourguiba. The venue list and daily schedule are published on the official JCC website closer to the festival.

How to get to Tunis for the Carthage Film Festival

Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN) is the main entry point and lies a short drive from the city centre. Taxis and pre-booked transfers are the easiest way to reach central hotels.

Most cinemas are within walking distance of each other in the centre. The light rail and taxis link the centre with other districts, while the TGM train connects Tunis with La Goulette, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa. Travellers from Sousse, Sfax and other cities can reach Tunis by train or louage.

Where to stay

Central Tunis around Avenue Habib Bourguiba and Avenue de Paris is the best base for festival-goers who want to move easily between screenings. The Lac area and the northern coastal suburbs are good alternatives for groups that prefer a calmer base.

Hotels in the centre are in high demand during the festival week, so book early and confirm rooms for groups well in advance.

Planning a group trip to the Carthage Film Festival

Film schools, cinema clubs and cultural associations can plan a group tour to the Carthage Film Festival around three or four days of screenings, with time for the medina, the Bardo Museum, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said.

Professionals and press should follow accreditation announcements on the official website. Give each traveller a printed screening plan and agree a meeting point, as cinemas are busy and some sessions fill quickly.

• Arrive early for screenings: queues form well before popular films, especially in the evening.
• Mix cinema and heritage: mornings are a good time for Carthage, Sidi Bou Said or the medina before afternoon screenings.
• Travel documents: check the official entry requirements for Tunisia before booking.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Carthage Film Festival 2026?

The 37th Journées Cinématographiques de Carthage run from 12 to 19 December 2026 in Tunis, according to the official festival website.

Where are the JCC screenings held?

In cinemas and cultural venues in central Tunis, many close to Avenue Habib Bourguiba. The venue list is published by the organisers before the festival.

How do I get tickets for the JCC?

Ticket and accreditation information is published on the official website and its social channels. Popular screenings can sell out, so arrive early.

Which airport is nearest?

Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN), a short drive from the city centre.

What kind of films does the festival show?

The JCC focuses on Arab and African cinema, with competitions for feature fiction, documentaries and short films, plus tributes and special screenings.

Travel agencies can book flights for travellers going to the Carthage Film Festival in the QuickOTA B2B Panel and set their own markup.