Founded in 2003, IN THE PALACE International Short Film Festival is dedicated to short films, new media and digital arts. Originating as a competitive forum for student films, it has grown to be a recognized platform for the expression of both young artists and established professionals – the only one of its kind in Bulgaria serving this particular sector of contemporary culture, and one of the oldest short film forums on the Balkans. IN THE PALACE is an EFFE Label holder – Europe’s quality stamp for remarkable arts festivals showing their engagement in the field of the arts, community involvement and international openness. Since 2017 IN THE PALACE has been an Academy Awards/Oscar® qualifying festival in the categories of Best Animation, Best Fiction and Best National Film and also a Student Academy Awards® qualifying festival. Since 2021 IN THE PALACE is nominated as GOYA Awards qualifying festival. IN THE PALACE is a member of the international network of festivals and institutions serving the short film sector – the Short Film Conference. Traditionally, IN THE PALACE takes place over one week and offers a wide range of events, activities, and programs for both – local and international short film industry and audience. IN THE PALACE is a cultural meeting point of film industry, artists, students, educational institutions, and the general public, that provides access to the latest trends, developments, and learning in the arts and culture through screenings, training and interdisciplinary exchange.