THE sixth Aesthetica Short Film Festival will be the biggest yet, promising 400 films in 18 venues over the four-day event running from November 3 to 6 with the invitation to "Explore York, Experience Film".

Here marketing coordinator Alexandra Beresford gives a rundown of the Top Ten events at ASFF 2016.

"We're particularly excited about the sixth instalment of the BAFTA Qualifying Aesthetica Short Film Festiva," she says. "We've introduced new events such as the Showcase Screening events where you can talent spot; Meet the Film Festivals as a trade show and market place; UK Screen Agencies Networking and Drinks reception; screenings for parents and babies; as well as even more masterclasses than previous years. Enjoy!"

The Aesthetica Short Film Festival Top Ten of what to see and do:

Official Selection Film Screenings, at various venues, November 3 to 6

"This year’s Official Selection truly demonstrates the power of film," says Alexandra. "Reaching out on many different levels, it discusses a variety of themes from the migrant crisis to tales of love and loss. With 400 shorts from 40 countries worldwide, there is a film for everyone and all are eligible for an award in their category including Best of Fest and People’s Choice.

"ASFF turns York into a cinematic playground and makes use of 18 iconic venues located within walking distance of each other inside the historic city walls."

York Press:

Fabian Driehorst & Frédéric Schuld's The Coup - A Small Cleptomanicx Adventure, one of 400 films to be shown at the sixth ASFF

Opening Night Showcase Screening, York Theatre Royal, November 4, 10.30am to 11.30am

"Here is your chance to view the films that kicked off ASFF 2016 on November 3," says Alexandra. "The Opening Night films present a range of genres and filmic styles from comedy, drama and animation to thriller, fashion and music video. The presentation is a great introduction to ASFF for first-time festival visitors: a chance to see in one screening the breadth of films on offer."

Cinema Bambino, at various venues, November 3 to 6

"New for 2016 are ASFF’s specially tailored baby screenings for parents and carers of babies from nought months to two years old," says Alexandra. "As an inclusive festival, we have organised showings in a relaxed and welcoming environment where you can park your buggy and enjoy great film. Films are selected for adult viewers and rated 15 max."

Meet the Film Festivals Marketplace, Belfrey Hall, November 4, 4pm to 9pm

"Meet the Film Festivals Marketplace is a prime opportunity for filmmakers to expand their industry contacts and speak with the programmers who are behind some of the top UK, European and international festivals," says Alexandra. "This is a chance to find out what they are looking for and to promote your work across established film festivals and emerging cinema platforms."

York Press:

Gary L Marshall and Chris Watson's Dave, featuring in ASFF's Animation programme

UK Screen Agency Drinks Reception, York Art Gallery, November 5, 5.30pm to 7pm

"Engage with representatives and filmmakers from Creative England, Creative Scotland, Northern Ireland Screen and Ffilm Cymru Wales within the newly re-opened space of York Art Gallery," suggests Alexandra. "This is your chance to meet with all the agencies in one location to learn more about funding and opportunities for networking. Please note, there will be limited capacity."

Battle Of The Somme Screenings, York Army Museum, November 3 to 6, 1pm to 2.30pm

"The landmark documentary and acclaimed film Battle Of The Somme presented a pivotal moment in First World War history to audiences across Britain in 1916. To mark its centenary, the festival is partnering with the Imperial War Museum, London, to bring audiences a unique showing of the film within the walls of the York Army Museum," says Alexandra.

Meet The Filmmakers Social, York Theatre Royal, November 5, 7pm to 9pm

"Get to know the creatives at the heart of ASFF 2016 at York Theatre Royal on Saturday night," says Alexandra. "Sponsored by Creative England, this event invites filmmakers and guests to network with artists from the Official Selection. This is a chance to expand your contacts and liaise with industry professionals, fellow filmmakers and a vast array of creative practitioners."

York Press:

Christopher Cunniff's Hustler

Masterclass: Industrial Light & Magic, Temple Hall, York St John University, November 4, 1pm to 2pm

"ASFF’s Masterclasses bring together industry leaders from across the film sector and span over 25 sessions. This masterclass is hosted by David Vickery, Acting Creative Director from the acclaimed VFX Company, Industrial Light and Magic (Lucasfilm’s VFX studio), whose credits include Doctor Strange, Ant-Man, Captain America: Civil War, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Spectre," says Alexandra. "Using examples of his work, Vickery will discuss all areas of VFX from planning and production to the final creation."

Showcase Screenings, various times and venues, November 3 to 6

"ASFF 2016 sees a series of independently curated guest showcase screenings from cultural organisations throughout the UK," says Alexandra. "This year’s guest institutions include London College of Fashion; Plymouth College of Art; the University of York; Ffilm Cymru Wales; Northern Film School and Northern Ireland Screen. The Showcase Screenings are free with a valid Festival Pass. See Showcase Screenings for details."

Awards Ceremony, National Centre for Early Music, November 6, 7pm to late

"The National Centre for Early Music plays host to the festival’s closing ceremony, offering an elevated and historic finish to ASFF’s four-day run," says Alexandra. "Festival Winner, Northern Film School Award for Best Screenplay, category winners and the People’s Choice will be announced and congratulated within NCEM’s medieval hall. This is an ideal way to wrap up a memorable weekend, but book early."

For full festival details and bookings, visit asff.co.uk