Since 1997, the European Film Awards have been held in early- to mid-December.

The 33rd European Film Awards were held on 12 December 2020 as a virtual ceremony.

Based on the nominations, the members of the European Film Academy then vote for the winners which are announced at the European Film Awards Ceremony in early December.

A cinematographic work qualifies as European if it achieves at least 16 points (out of 21).

Barcelona, Bochum, Copenhagen, Glasgow, London, Riga, Rome, Seville, Tallinn, Valletta, Warsaw, and Wroclaw, have each hosted once.