BFI FAN CON 2026 - Save the Date!

We’re excited to announce that the second edition of the BFI Film Audience Network conference, BFI FAN CON, will take place at Tyneside Cinema in Newcastle, from 7–9 September 2026.

Join us for two inspiring days designed to help you connect with colleagues, learn from peers behind some of the most innovative BFI FAN projects, and discover fresh ideas for reaching and engaging audiences. Hear from sector experts and leading practitioners from beyond the world of film, all while experiencing the vibrant city of Newcastle - with a landmark independent cinema as your base.

The conference will open on Monday 7 September with a special screening, followed by two full days of sessions and workshops on Tuesday and Wednesday. Highlights also include a conference dinner on Tuesday evening and additional social activities on Wednesday night, offering plenty opportunities to meet new people and build your network.

Add the date to your calendar and read on to see how you can help shape the programme! We’ll be in touch soon when conference registration opens.

Open Call for Session Ideas

We want the programme for BFI FAN CON to be as relevant, inspiring and useful as possible, reflecting the interests and priorities of the FAN membership.

There are three ways you can propose an idea for the conference: propose to guest curate a session, share a case study from your organisation or simply suggest speakers you’d like to see or topics you’d like us to cover.

For case studies, we’re keen to hear about initiatives you’ve delivered, the challenges you faced and how you addressed them, how you reached new audiences, or any other area of good practice you feel would benefit other FAN members.

Your project or initiative doesn’t need to have been 100% successful – we’re interested in process, learning and outcomes, not just finished results.

This is a paid opportunity for the guest curators and case study proposals that we take forward.

Submit your ideas by Monday 9 March 2026, at 5pm.

Who is BFI FAN CON for?

BFI FAN CON is for all types of FAN exhibitors, from small community cinemas and touring collectives to large multi-screen independent cinemas and landmark film festivals. The event is for anyone working or volunteering in any film exhibition role at a FAN member organisation, and at any level of their career.

If you’re passionate about your work in film exhibition, we hope you’ll join us at BFI FAN CON!