Comedy, Film, Music: Beyond the Frame at Aesthetica 2026
For 2026, Aesthetica is evolving beyond a traditional film festival model into a wider celebration of screen culture, live performance and storytelling. Beyond the Frame is a season of evening performances at York Theatre Royal, injecting comedy and live performance
Learn from the Best: Inside Aesthetica’s Masterclass Programme
At the heart of Aesthetica Film Festival is a belief that knowledge should be accessible to everyone. Our Masterclass Programme is designed to open opportunities to hear directly from some of the most exciting and influential voices working across the
UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO: The New Geography of British Creativity
Britain’s creative industries are a defining force in the UK economy, generating an estimated £145.8 billion in Gross Value Added in 2024 – equivalent to 5.5% of the national economy. The sector supported 2.4 million jobs, with employment 14.7% higher
Announcing the Music at Aesthetica Programme
We’re bringing the worlds of music and film together through a dedicated Music Programme designed to spark connection, collaboration and new opportunities. The programme features panels, the New Music Stage featuring 10 breakthrough artists, masterclasses and networking. Meet industry professionals
Families at Aesthetica Film Festival 2026
Aesthetica is a festival for everyone – and families are at its heart. From 4–8 November, York will transform into a hub of creativity and imagination, offering children and parents experiences they cannot find anywhere else in the city. From
Day Five of Aesthetica Film Festival
It’s the Final Day of the Festival! What an incredible five days it’s been, thank you for being part of the UK’s largest event celebrating screen and media! As we wrap up an inspiring week of creativity, connection and innovation,
Day Four of Aesthetica Film Festival
We are seeing in the festival weekend with the electric New Music Stage, showcasing 10 exciting, breakthrough artists. The winner will be decided by a jury stacked with industry experts, including Universal Music, and you – the audience! Plus, explore today's roundup of top
Day Three of Aesthetica Film Festival
We've reached the #ASFF2025 midpoint – and there's so much more to come! From inspiring industry masterclasses, VR workshops to film screenings from around the world, today is a celebration of screen and media. Here's a roundup of today's top 10 events to look forward to. Take
#ASFF2025: Day 2 Highlights
Day Two is here! A big thank you to everyone who took part in our opening day events yesterday. We are looking forward to another day of bold masterclasses, the opening of the UNESCO EXPO, inspiring film screenings, and networking
Aesthetica Film Festival Launches the UK’s First National New Music Stage
At Aesthetica, creativity is not a single act; it is a conversation - a meeting point where ideas, stories and sound collide. For 15 years, our film festival has been a place to witness fresh voices in cinema, to see
