Dortmunder Tresen Filmfestival

DTFF — Short films between beer and bar counters

The Dortmunder Tresen Filmfestival (DTFF) is one of Germany's most original festival concepts. Instead of sitting in a cinema, visitors watch short films where they drink their beer — in the city's pubs and cafés. From June 1st to 5th, 2026, the 14th edition will run, transforming ten central venues into temporary cinemas.

The Ten Venues 2026

The participating venues for 2026:

• Herr Walter (Innenstadt-Nord)
• Subrosa (Westfälisches Viertel)
• Alte Gasse
• Luups
• Missin' Link
• IBIS Dortmund City (Newcomer 2026)
• Balke (Returning venue)
• The Londoner
• Minner's Irish Pub
• Domicil (Jazz club with film hall)

2026 Programme — International Short Films

The 2026 programme features international short films from Austria, France, Germany, and other countries. Confirmed titles:

• „Out of Sync“ (Austria) — about synchronized swimming
• „Lady Atilla“ (France) — about family business and music
• „Kutte“ (Germany) — about clothing and belonging
• „Der Mann, der wirklich nichts kann“ (Germany) — about unexpected life changes

Golden Beer Coaster — The Audience Award

The festival concludes on Friday with the awarding of the „Goldener Bierdeckel“ (Golden Beer Coaster): a 1,000 € audience prize for the favourite film. Over the five festival days, guests in the pubs vote — using a beer coaster as a ballot. The award has been the DTFF's hallmark since the festival's premiere in 2013.

Pub Culture and Film Culture

The DTFF is one of the rare festivals that combine film culture with the typical Ruhr area pub tradition. In a city with over 200 pubs and a vibrant cultural scene, the format finds a perfect stage. The organizer is Dortmunder Tresen Filmfestival e.V. — a volunteer team of filmmakers, cinephiles, and restaurateurs.