Hangzhou, China – On the scenic shores of Baima Lake, the 20th China International Cartoon and Animation Festival (CICAF) opened its doors on May 29, marking a significant milestone in the world of animation. This annual event, celebrated as a “feast of animation and festival for the people,” has brought together an impressive array of industry leaders, government officials, and international guests to Zhejiang’s vibrant capital.
The grand opening ceremony was held at the Jianguo Hotel in Binjiang, Hangzhou. Distinguished guests from various government departments, international organizations, and leading enterprises like China Animation Association, CCTV Animation, the Walt Disney Company, and Pixar Animation Studios were also present, underscoring the festival’s global significance.
A highlight of the opening ceremony was the signing of international cooperation agreements between CICAF and several prestigious animation festivals and organizations, including Hungary’s Kecskemét Animation Film Festival, Croatia’s Zagreb International Animation Festival, Korea’s Bucheon International Animation Festival, and UNIPX Group from New York. These partnerships aim to foster deeper collaboration through mutual invitations, business exchanges, cultural interactions, and joint screenings, thereby expanding CICAF‘s international network.
Spanning five days, the 20th CICAF promises a rich program centered around the theme “The Prime Time of National Animation.” The festival will utilize a “1+1+N” venue matrix model, with the main events at the Hangzhou Baima Lake International Convention and Exhibition Center, a secondary venue at the China Animation Museum, and additional activities across three other districts in Hangzhou. This year, the festival emphasizes AI empowerment and talent cultivation, featuring over 30 events including exhibitions, business forums, competitions, and training sessions. These activities aim to showcase the high-quality development of the animation industry and support cultural innovation and consumer engagement.
Initial reports indicate participation from over 2,100 enterprises and institutions from 50 countries and regions, including prominent domestic companies like Zhejiang Radio and Television Group and international entities such as MEGAHOUSE and Hello Kitty. The festival will showcase more than 140,000 pieces of animation works, ranging from classic brands to cutting-edge IPs. Notably, the newly introduced Trendy Creation and Global Goods Zones will debut numerous brands, offering fresh perspectives and products to festival-goers.
Highlighting Hangzhou’s leadership in the digital economy, this year’s CICAF features an innovative array of interactive areas, including a Cyber Pet Mechanical Dog Training Ground, a Holographic Cabin Animation Photo Studio, and an AI Image Cloud Computing Workshop. These areas will allow visitors to experience the convergence of animation and technology firsthand, enhancing the festival’s appeal with immersive, tech-driven exhibits.
The festival will also leverage platforms like the International Animation and Game Business Conference to facilitate business interactions and industry exchanges, promoting project collaborations and industrial transformation. Additionally, the event will host a series of competitions, master classes, talent recruitment fairs, and launch talent cultivation programs, reinforcing its role as a crucial platform for nurturing animation talent.
Since its inception in 2005, Hangzhou has become a beacon of innovation and development in the animation industry. The city has hosted 19 successful editions of CICAF, establishing the “Hangzhou Model” for industry leadership. As of the end of 2023, Hangzhou’s animation and gaming sector comprises 274 enterprises with an annual output value surpassing 6.9 billion dollars, solidifying its reputation as an “International Animation Capital.”
The 20th China International Cartoon and Animation Festival stands as a testament to the dynamic growth and cultural vitality of Hangzhou, inviting animation enthusiasts from around the world to join in this remarkable celebration of creativity and technology.
Published by: Holy Minoza
