The Delta Awards, held at the Festival of Fantastic Films in Manchester, has opened submissions for the 2026 season.

The festival is a unique international celebration of horror, science fiction and fantasy cinema has attracted some of the biggest names in the industry since 1990. A friendly festival with a unique atmosphere and impeccable pedigree, we’ve long been considered a hidden gem on the festival circuit. FFF Manchester relaunched in 2022 with a new look and a new programme.

Legendary British director Norman J. Warren was a fan of the festival and attended most years as both a guest and fan, always keen to meet and encourage fledgling filmmakers. Our best-in-festival award has been named in Norman’s memory.

The festival was founded by Tony Edwards, Gil Lane-Young, Harry Nadler and Dave Trengrove, and grew out of the Delta Film Group, a filmmaking society in Manchester in the 1960s.

The Delta Awards celebrate the best independent short films in the science fiction, horror, and fantasy categories.

Filmmakers can find out more and submit their short here.

This year’s Festival of Fantastic Films takes place at the Pendulum Hotel in Manchester over the weekend of October 23rd to 25th. Passes are available now. Guest announcements will be a made in due course.