World Animation Day

World Animation Day: Celebrating the Magic of Motion

World Animation Day, officially known as International Animation Day (IAD), is an annual celebration dedicated to the art and science of animation. Established in 2002 by ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation), a UNESCO-affiliated organization, the day honors the first public performance of animation by Charles-Émile Reynaud in 1892. It is a global tribute to the creativity, innovation, and storytelling that define this unique art form.

Quick Facts

When is it?: October 28th every year
Tagged as: A celebration of animation as an art form
What’s the hashtag?: #InternationalAnimationDay
When was it founded?: 2002
Who founded it?: ASIFA (Association Internationale du Film d’Animation)

History of International Animation Day

The roots of International Animation Day trace back to October 28, 1892, when Charles-Émile Reynaud presented his “Pantomimes Lumineuses” at the Théâtre Optique in Paris. This marked the first public screening of animated images. Fast forward to 2002, ASIFA established the day to celebrate animation as a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. Today, it is observed in over 50 countries through workshops, film screenings, and exhibitions.

Timeline

1892: Charles-Émile Reynaud debuts “Pantomimes Lumineuses” in Paris.
1908: Émile Cohl creates the first animated film using traditional methods.
1923: Walt and Roy Disney establish the Walt Disney Company.
1985: Hiroshima International Animation Festival is launched to commemorate World War II’s end.
1995: Pixar releases Toy Story, the first fully computer-animated feature film.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	October 28	Tuesday
2026	October 28	Wednesday
2027	October 28	Thursday
2028	October 28	Saturday
2029	October 28	Sunday
2030	October 28	Monday

Observed

World Animation Day is celebrated globally with events like animation workshops, exhibitions, film screenings, and educational activities. These events aim to inspire new talent and educate people about animation’s history and techniques.

Fun Facts About International Animation Day

The first animated feature film was El Apóstol (1917) from Argentina.
The term “animation” comes from the Latin word animare, meaning “to give life.”
Stop-motion animation often uses clay figures, giving rise to “claymation.”
The Annecy International Animation Festival is one of the most prestigious animation events worldwide.
Winners at Animafest Zagreb automatically qualify for Academy Award consideration.

Quiz

Who created the first public animation performance?
(Answer: Charles-Émile Reynaud)
What year was International Animation Day established?
(Answer: 2002)
What was Pixar’s first animated feature film?
(Answer: Toy Story)
What does ASIFA stand for?
(Answer: Association Internationale du Film d’Animation)

FAQs

Q: Why is International Animation Day important?
A: It celebrates the creativity and innovation of animators while promoting awareness of animation’s cultural significance.

Q: How can I celebrate this day?
A: Participate in workshops, watch animated films, or share your favorite animations on social media using #InternationalAnimationDay.

Q: Is animation only about entertainment?
A: No, animation also serves educational purposes and conveys complex ideas through visual storytelling.

Importance of International Animation Day

This day emphasizes the global impact of animation as a medium for storytelling, education, and cultural exchange. It honors animators’ dedication and inspires future generations to explore this dynamic art form.