International Animation Day

Every year on October 28, we celebrate International Animation Day — a vibrant observance that honors the inventive, expressive, and ever‑evolving art form of animation. The day was established to shine a spotlight not just on the characters and films we love, but on the artists, technicians, and storytellers who make animated worlds come alive.

History of International Animation Day

The roots of this celebration trace back to October 28, 1892, when Charles‑Émile Reynaud unveiled his Théâtre Optique at the Musée Grévin in Paris — showcasing his hand‑painted moving images on a looped ribbon in a public performance. In recognition of that pioneering moment in animation history, the International Animated Film Association (ASIFA) proclaimed October 28 as International Animation Day in 2002 to mark the many forms of animated expression around the world. Since then, the day has gained global reach, with cultural institutions, schools, festivals, and studios across dozens of countries participating.

Why is International Animation Day important?

I like to think of this day as more than just watching cartoons — it’s a moment to pause and acknowledge how animation has shaped our culture, our storytelling, and our sense of wonder. Animation takes still images, breathes life into them, and then invites us to believe in worlds that defy physics, expectations, and even time. It is a fusion of art and technology, imagination and craft.

What’s more, the day invites us to consider that animation isn’t just for children or entertainment — it’s a tool for education, social commentary, innovation, and cross‑cultural exchange. When we celebrate animation, we also celebrate visual language, global cooperation (studios across countries, animators from diverse backgrounds) and the idea that anyone, anywhere, can pick up a pen, tablet, or phone and create a moving image.

Here are five human-centered thoughts on why this day matters.

• It honors the many unseen people — illustrators, riggers, voice actors, software engineers—behind beloved animated works.
• It reminds us that the tools of animation (from hand‑drawn cels to CGI) reflect progress in how we communicate and imagine.
• It bridges generations—a classic cartoon from decades ago sits next to a modern digital short, and both inspire.
• It opens a doorway to learners and creators: a short film, a workshop, a drawing session might spark someone’s future.
• It encourages global perspective—animated films travel across languages and cultures, telling stories that resonate universally.

How to Celebrate International Animation Day

You don’t need a blockbuster budget or a studio‑level setup to take part in this celebration—the key is curiosity and appreciation. One simple way is to pick a few animated films or shorts—maybe one you loved long ago, another you’ve never seen—and watch them with fresh eyes. Consider what techniques they use, how characters move, how stories unfold differently than “live‑action” movies.

Another way is to roll up your sleeves and try something creative: sketch a character, make a stop‑motion clip with your phone, attend an online workshop or local screening, or support an independent animator by sharing their work. Even a small gesture can deepen your connection to this art form.

Here are five friendly ideas

• Watch an animated short or feature you haven’t seen, and reflect on its visual style and story.
• Try your hand at a basic animation — draw two frames, make them flip, see how movement happens.
• Visit a local film festival, screening or online event focused on animation techniques, styles or history.
• Encourage a young person (child, student, younger sibling) interested in drawing, graphics, or storytelling to explore animation tools or try a simple project.
• Share one of your favourite animated moments (film, show, clip) on social media with #InternationalAnimationDay and tag an animator or friend who’d appreciate it.

International Animation Day Dates Table