International Animation Day
International Animation Day brings the world together to celebrate the magic of animation on October 28th every year.
This special day marks the anniversary of the first-ever public performance of animation by Charles-Émile Reynaud in Paris in 1892. It’s a day when everyone, from kids to adults, can enjoy the creativity and innovation behind animated movies and shows.
The day was officially started by ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation) in 2002 to honor this unique art form. It often combines technology, storytelling, and visual art to capture people’s imaginations worldwide.
Animation is more than just cartoons. It’s a diverse field with various techniques like drawing, clay animation, and digital methods.
It’s celebrated globally, with over 50 countries hosting events like screenings, workshops, and exhibitions to showcase animation’s beauty and complexity.
We celebrate this day to shine a light on the talented individuals who create animated works and to encourage the public to explore and appreciate the art and science of animation. It’s a chance for people everywhere to learn about animation’s history, techniques, and cultural significance.
Whether it’s through participating in animation workshops, watching classic and contemporary animated films, or simply sharing favorite animation moments, International Animation Day is a tribute to the endless creativity and hard work of animators around the globe.
History of International Animation Day
Once upon a time, on October 28, 1892, a magical event took place in the bustling city of Paris. This was the first public animation performance, brought to life by Émile Reynaud’s Theatre Optique.
Fast forward to 2002, and the Association Internationale du Film d’Animation (ASIFA) decided this day needed recognition. So, they declared October 28 as International Animation Day, a global celebration of all things animated.
October 28 is a remarkable historic day when animation first flickered across a screen. It captivated audiences and set the stage for a future filled with animated wonders.
From the drawing boards of the early 20th century to the high-tech studios of today, animation has journeyed through time, evolving and enchanting.
ASIFA, the group behind this celebration, was founded to foster international collaboration and share the joy of animation. It’s a club where animators, fans, and everyone can come together to appreciate this unique art form.
International Animation Day isn’t just about looking back at where animation started. It’s a vibrant, worldwide fiesta that spotlights animated creations everywhere.
Imagine a day when every corner of the globe buzzes with screenings, workshops, and exhibitions, all dedicated to animation. Whether it’s a classic cartoon, a cutting-edge digital masterpiece, or a simple flipbook, this day celebrates them all.
And it’s not just for the pros; everyone from school kids to seasoned animators gets in on the action, sharing their love for storytelling through animation.
So, as October 28 rolls around every year, remember it’s not just another day. It’s a day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and dream about the future of animation.
It’s a day to remember that no matter where you are in the world, animation speaks to us all, crosses barriers, and brings us together in a shared experience of creativity and wonder.
How to Celebrate International Animation Day
Celebrating International Animation Day can be a blast with these quirky and playful suggestions:
Dive Into Classic Films: Relive the joy of childhood by watching timeless animated films. Whether it’s the enchanting “Bambi” or the adventurous “Aladdin,” there’s no shortage of classics to enjoy.
Try Making Clay Animation: Grab some Play-Doh and your smartphone to create your claymation. It’s a fun, hands-on way to appreciate the art behind animation.
Visit the Stars: If you’re near Hollywood, why not visit the Walk of Fame? Pay homage to animation legends like the Simpsons and soak in the history.
Explore Different Animation Eras: From the early Disney Mickey Mouse cartoons to modern masterpieces that blend traditional and digital techniques, take a day to appreciate the evolution of animation.
Learn to Draw With Disney+ Series: “Sketchbook” on Disney+ offers a unique peek into the lives and desks of Disney artists, teaching viewers how to draw iconic characters while sharing the artists’ stories.
Watch “The Great Mouse Detective.” This film entertained and introduced computer animation to the scene, showcasing the blend of traditional animation with new technology.
Educate Yourself With “Waking Sleeping Beauty“: This documentary offers a behind-the-scenes look at a pivotal time in Disney’s history.
Each of these activities provides a unique way to celebrate animation’s creativity, innovation, and artistry, making International Animation Day unforgettable.
