Looking for something a little different to do in Cardiff this spring? Cardiff Animation Festival
returns from 23-26 April with four days of films, creativity and feel‑good experiences for all
ages.
Now in its ninth year, Wales’ only global animation event once again takes over Chapter
Arts Centre with a joyful mix of screenings, workshops, games and special guests.
If you’ve ever thought animation was just for children, this is the perfect place to discover how
rich, surprising and inventive it can be. The festival showcases animated films from around the
world – moving, funny, strange, beautiful and everything in between. Some will transport you
somewhere unexpected, others might give you chills, and many offer a welcome moment of
calm away from the pace of everyday life.
Families are well catered for too, with a dedicated programme for younger audiences aged 5+,
featuring bite‑sized independent shorts ideal for children who are new to cinema or who love
variety. Highlights include Little Amélie (PG), a gentle and visually stunning story about
childhood, curiosity and connection.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can get hands‑on with animation in relaxed, playful
workshops – from making riso flipbooks and animating with sand to crafting clay characters with
modelmakers from Aardman, the studio behind Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep.
There’s also the chance to contribute to a collaborative animation or help create a mural.
The festival is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere, with informal socials, late‑night
events like animated karaoke, and plenty of opportunities to chat with filmmakers. This year’s
guests include Summer Camp Island creator Julia Pott and bestselling illustrator Philippa Rice,
alongside a special focus on Japanese animation with Kotatsu Festival.
