The 79th edition of the world’s most glamorous film festival is currently unfolding in the stunning French Riviera resort town of Cannes, France. The festival takes place from May 12 to May 23, 2026. The primary hub for all the action is the iconic Palais des Festivals et des Congrès (the Festival and Congress Palace).
The Palais des Festivals is the beating heart of the Cannes Film Festival. This iconic venue, located on the Boulevard de la Croisette, is where the world’s biggest film premieres are held and where the prestigious Palme d’Or awards are presented. For 12 days, the Palais is transformed into the epicenter of the global film industry, hosting a packed schedule of non-stop world premieres, press conferences, and glamorous red-carpet events.
The entire city of Cannes, from the sandy shores of the Croisette to the lavish hotel suites and historic buildings in the city center, becomes a part of the festival backdrop. Every corner is bustling with A-list stars and esteemed directors from across the globe.
Key Details of the 79th Cannes Film Festival (2026)
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Official Name: 79th Cannes Film Festival (79e Festival de Cannes)
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Dates: May 12, 2026 – May 23, 2026
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Primary Venue: Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, Cannes, France.
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Opening Film: The Electric Kiss (French period-comedy) directed by Pierre Salvadori.
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Honorary Palme d’Or Recipient: Director Peter Jackson of The Lord of the Rings.
The Palais des Festivals et des Congrès
The Palais des Festivals is the heart of the Cannes Film Festival. This iconic venue, located on the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, is where the world’s biggest premieres are held and where the Palme d’Or is presented. During the festival, you can easily spot it by the large, purple-striped official posters adorning its facade. Even if you’re just exploring, the red carpet leading into its main auditorium, the Grand Théâtre Lumière, is a sight to behold with celebrity arrivals.
More Than Just a Venue: The 2026 Festival Experience
While the Palais is the main attraction, the entire city of Cannes becomes a living part of the festival. From the sandy shores of the Croisette to the lavish hotel suites, the city is buzzing with excitement.
A Look at the Competition This Year
A total of 22 films are competing for the top honor, the Palme d’Or, which will be handed out at the closing ceremony on May 23. This year’s competition is packed with cinematic heavyweights:
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“Hope” by South Korean director Na Hong-jin, starring real-life couple Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander.
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“Bitter Christmas” by Spanish auteur Pedro Almodóvar.
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“Fatherland” by Polish director Pawel Pawlikowski.
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“Paper Tiger” by American director James Gray, featuring a star-studded cast that includes Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver.
Jury President and Judges
Leading the jury to select the winner of the Palme d’Or is a highly respected figure in world cinema. The jury is chaired by South Korean director Park Chan-wook, who is best known for his masterful work on the psychological thriller Oldboy.
The jury includes nine other members: Hollywood star Demi Moore, Chilean director Diego Cespedes, Ivorian actor Isaach de Bankole, screenwriter Paul Laverty, actress Ruth Negga, Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgard, and Chinese director and screenwriter Chloé Zhao.
Where the Stars Are Gathering (A-Listers & Surprises)
A major highlight of the 2026 festival is the return of an A-list star to the director’s chair. John Travolta will be presenting his directorial debut, a film about aviation.
Other big names attending this year’s festival include:
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Julianne Moore and Cate Blanchett are both set to make appearances.
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Rami Malek will be at the festival to promote The Man I Love by Ira Sachs.
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Kristen Stewart and Woody Harrelson are on the Croisette, featuring in films premiering for the first time.
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Norwegian star Renate Reinsve and Spanish favorite Javier Bardem are also on the guest list.
A Nostalgic Return: Farewell My Concubine
One of the most anticipated events at this year’s festival is the re-screening of the classic film “Farewell My Concubine,” the only Chinese film to ever win the Palme d’Or back in 1993. The film’s star, Gong Li, a member of the festival’s jury this year, was spotted on the red carpet for the opening ceremony.
Where to Eat, Stay & Film Near Palais des Festivals
The area around the Palais des Festivals is filled with excellent restaurants and glamorous hotels. Here are a few top spots:
Luxury Hotels with Red Carpet Views:
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Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic: Located directly across from the Palais, this is the celebrity hotspot for watching the red carpet arrivals.
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JW Marriott Cannes: Offers stunning views of the Croisette and the bay and is a great base for exploring the festival.
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Five Seas Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel just a few steps from the Palais, perfect for a more intimate luxury experience.
Iconic Dining & Cafés:
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La Môme: A glamorous, art-deco inspired restaurant popular with celebrities and known for its excellent French cuisine.
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L’Affable: A classic, unpretentious French bistro near the Palais, famous for its onion soup.
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Le Roof (at Five Seas Hotel): A chic rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the Croisette, perfect for a pre-film cocktail.
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Gelato at the Palais: Don’t forget to grab a gelato from one of the many vendors lining the Croisette. It’s the perfect, affordable way to feel like a star for a moment.
Plan Your Visit to Cannes Film Festival 2026 Location
If you are interested in attending future festivals, here is a quick guide.
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Tickets: Tickets for screenings can be booked on the official Festival de Cannes website. Tickets require a 4-day advance reservation, with new slots opening daily from 7:00 am to 8:00 am CET.
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How to Get There: The nearest major airport is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, which offers direct train and bus services to Cannes.
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Dress Code: Evening screenings have a strict black-tie dress code. For daytime events, a chic, smart-casual look is appropriate for accessing the Palais area.
