Animation Festivals Directory

CICFF takes place in October, and is the oldest, largest and most prestigious festival of films for children in the U.S.!

In 1983, Facets founded the Chicago International Children’s Film Festival, the first competitive festival of films for children in the U.S. The impetus for the Festival came from a need to introduce new, culturally diverse films for children to American children’s audiences, and to recognize excellence in children’s filmmaking. In addition, the Festival sought to empower children by involving them directly in the jurying process. From its inception, the Festival has had independent juries of children and adult media professionals awarding prizes in multiple categories.

Oscar®-qualifying film categories include Live-Action Short Film and Animated Short Film.

Year established: 1983

Is this festival exclusively animation?: No - this is a film festival but with a specific animation category

Is there a marketplace at this festival?: No