Beijing International Film Festival (hereinafter referred to as "BJIFF") was founded in 2011. As the first major international cultural exchange event in the film industry held in China each year, it typically takes place in April. The main theme of BJIFF is "Share the Screen, Shape the Future", with the core value concept of "Beauty in Variety, Harmony in Diversity". After years of development, BJIFF has become one of Beijing's most internationally influential annual large-scale cultural events.

The 16th BJIFF is guided by China Film Administration, co-hosted by China Media Group and People's Government of Beijing Municipality, and organized by Beijing Municipal Film Administration, Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau, China Film Group Corporation, Beijing Radio & Television Station, Huairou District People's Government of Beijing Municipality, Beijing Film Academy, and Beijing Enterprises Group Company Limited. Under the theme of "Tiantan Glows, Hundred Flowers Bloom, Beijing Shines in Every Frame", this year's BJIFF is scheduled to take place from April 16 to 25, 2026. It will feature a variety of events, including the Competition Section, Tiantan Award, the Opening Ceremony, Beijing Film Panorama, BJIFF Core Forums Series, Beijing Film Market, Film Carnival, College Student Film Festival, Closing & Awards Ceremony, the cross-border integrated "Film Plus" and other main sections with hundreds of vibrant activities. The awards ceremony, opening and closing ceremonies, carnival, and some "Film Plus" events will all take place in Huairou District. The Beijing Film Panorama will take place at 30 commercial cinemas and art theaters across Beijing, Tianjin, and Xiong'an New Area in Hebei Province. The BJIFF Core Forums series and Beijing Film Market will take place at Langyuan Station in Chaoyang District, while the College Student Film Festival will take place on Beijing Normal University's Beijing and Zhuhai campuses.

The 16th BJIFF has always been guided by Xi Jinping's cultural thought, remaining true to its cultural mission and embracing the responsibilities of the times. With a commitment to upholding fundamental principles while breaking new ground, the festival deeply cultivates the soil of cinematic art. With openness and inclusiveness, it embraces global film culture, continuously enhancing its international reach, professional standards, affinity to the people, and overall influence. The festival is fully dedicated to empowering the high-quality development of the film industry, contributing to the construction of a leading film nation and advancing Beijing's role as the national center for politics, culture, international exchanges, and scientific and technological innovation. It strives to tell China's stories well and amplify China's voice, injecting lasting momentum into strengthening the foundation of a film powerhouse and promoting cultural exchange and mutual learning between China and the world, thus writing a more brilliant chapter in the history of Chinese cinema.