As Aesthetica we pride ourselves on offering more than just screenings. Across the festival, an exciting programme of social events offers filmmakers, creatives, industry professionals and audiences the chance to connect, share ideas and shape the future of the industry. From XR and music industry meet-ups to relaxed networking drinks, lively parties and the festival’s closing Awards After Party, there are plenty of opportunities to meet fellow creatives, collaborations and create long lasting memories.

XR Happy Hour

A destination for those working in new technologies, the VR and Games Happy Hour brings industry guests together to contemplate the future of games development, VR and immersive filmmaking. This is the ideal place to generate ideas about what’s next for interactive entertainment and beyond – free welcome drink upon arrival. 

Meet the Music Industry

The worlds of film, games, XR and music increasingly intersect, and exciting opportunities emerge when we connect the dots. Beggars Group Universal, EMI, Fontana, Dance to the Radio and others invite you to a Meet the Music Industry takeover for drinks and collaboration, to explore shared opportunities and spark new partnerships.

Meet the Makers

Meet the Makers is your opportunity to get to know the creatives at the heart of Aesthetica 2026. The event is sponsored by Sticks and Glass, a fresh new post production space located in central Leeds. Catch up with the friends you’ve already made or make some brand new connections. This event is for everyone whether you’re a complete novice, developing practitioner or an experienced professional. Join us with a complimentary glass of wine upon arrival for drinks and networking.

Friday Night Party

Dusk hosts the renowned Friday Night Party, helping to carry Aesthetica Film Festival into a weekend of fun social events and inspiring cinema screenings. Located in York’s New Street, the party provides the perfect location to join in with the festivities or re-group with brand new friends. Grab a drink and connect with the industry.

Festival Awards After Party

To bring the 16th edition of the Aesthetica Film Festival to a close, we welcome filmmakers, delegates and audiences to join our Awards Ceremony, honoring the exceptional talent the film industry has to offer. Prizes are awarded for best film in each of our genres, as well as our Best of Fest and Special Guest Awards. Following our celebration of impressive achievements and talent, join us at Thor’s Tippi Museum Garden for the Aesthetica Film Festival After Party drinks reception.

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Aesthetica Film Festival 2026 runs 4-8 November in York, UK. Click here to book your festival pass.

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