Ottawa International Animation Festival 2026 (50th Anniversary)

About

The Ottawa International Animation Festival (OIAF) is one of the world's leading animation events and has provided screenings, exhibits, workshops, and entertainment since 1976. Attracting artists, producers, students and animation fans from around the globe, the OIAF brings together art and industry to experience world-class animated works. OIAF's 50th celebration runs from Wednesday, September 23 to Sunday, September 27 at venues throughout downtown Ottawa.

Every year, OIAF receives upwards of 2,000+ entries from countries around the world. The OIAF programming team selects short films and features for the Official Competition to be judged by the first all-Canadian jury in OIAF history. OIAF feature films and short films will screen across the downtown area, at the OAG Alma Duncan Salon, the ByTowne Cinema, Arts Court Theatre, the National Gallery of Canada, and the NAC. Catch over 200 new films, go behind the scenes at Animation Exposé, and enjoy programs for animation lovers of all ages.

Highlights

All Ages @ OIAF — Saturday, September 26

A full day of screenings and hands-on activities for animation fans of all ages throughout the Ottawa Art Gallery (OAG) and Arts Court. Free Teen passes valid all day on Saturday, September 26 until 6 PM.

Animation Exposé — Saturday, September 26 (NAC)

A full day of artist talks, animation activities, and meet-and-greets at the National Arts Centre, curated to enhance your experience and understanding of the world of animation. Meet inspiring creators and find a way to study animation.

The Animation Conference (TAC)

A 3-day industry forum bringing together over 400 influential content creators and buyers. Features panels, keynotes, and pitching opportunities aimed at fostering the growth of the animation industry.

Parties & Social Events

• Opening Night Party — karaoke, complimentary poutine bar, and dancing
• Salon des Refusés — pass-holders view films that weren't accepted into the festival, with libations and crowd validation
• Animators' Picnic — OIAF's signature social event, held along the Rideau River
• Friday Night Party — mid-festival, legendary
• Drink 'n Draw (Saturday night) — sketch cosplay models in a creative atmosphere
• Closing Night Party — held in the Arts Court Studio

Venues

• OAG (Ottawa Art Gallery) — 50 Mackenzie King Bridge
• Arts Court — 2 Daly Avenue
• ByTowne Cinema — 325 Rideau Street
• NAC (National Arts Centre) — 1 Elgin Street
• National Gallery of Canada — 380 Sussex Drive

Tickets & Passes

The OIAF virtual box office opens on June 2 with early bird discounts until July 28. Six-packs and individual tickets become available in late August or in person during the festival.

Available June 2 (early bird until July 28)

• 5-day AnimaPass: $330
• 5-day AnimaPass (Canadian students): $220
• 5-day AnimaPass (international students): $240
• 5-day TAC + OIAF AnimaPass: $665
• 3-day TAC + OIAF AnimaPass: $610
• Weekend pass: $155
• Weekend pass (Canadian students): $125
• Wednesday pass: $60
• Thursday pass: $80
• Friday pass: $90
• Saturday pass: $80 (free options for teens & teachers)
• Sunday pass: $65

Available in August

• Individual screening tickets: $15
• 6-pack of screening tickets: $75

Full pass details at animationfestival.ca/boxoffice. Box office questions: [email protected].

Connect

• Website: animationfestival.ca
• Facebook: @ottawa.animationfestival
• Instagram: @ottawa.animationfestival
• X / Twitter: @OIAF_Animation
• Phone: 613-232-8769