On this day in 2002, a momentous event in the cultural landscape of Kosova took place as the first edition of DokuFest was launched in Prizren. The inaugural edition, which lasted until September 8, served as the platform that spurred a renaissance in Prizren’s cinematic and cultural sphere.

Established with the vision to rejuvenate Prizren’s cultural life and its cinematic lineage, DokuFest burgeoned into the premier festival of documentary and short films in Southeast Europe. Its importance was further underscored in 2019 when it was recognized as a BAFTA qualifying festival for short films.

DokuFest, the International Documentary and Short Film Festival, quickly established itself as the paramount film festival in Kosova. Each year, this 9-day festival transforms the historic city center of Prizren into a cinema lover’s paradise. It fills theaters and makeshift screening venues with a curated selection of over 200 remarkable films from across the globe, offering a diverse showcase of cinematic narratives.

But DokuFest is not just about films. It is an immersive cultural event that promotes a holistic appreciation of the arts. The festival is interspersed with documentary photo exhibitions, engaging debates, master classes helmed by industry experts, and electrifying music events, ensuring an enriching and entertaining experience for all attendees.

Over the years, DokuFest has earned a high rank among regional and international film festivals. Its growing reputation is a testament to its commitment to fostering artistic talent, promoting unique narratives, and contributing to Kosova’s cultural resurgence on a global platform. The evolution of DokuFest from its inaugural event to its current stature illustrates the remarkable strides taken in the realm of Kosova’s cultural development.