New York International Children’s Film Festival was founded in 1997 to support the creation and dissemination of thoughtful, provocative, and intelligent film for children and teens. The Festival cultivates an appreciation for the arts, encourages active, discerning viewing, and stimulates discussion among peers, families, and the film community.
The flagship New York City Festival has grown from one weekend of films into the largest film festival for children and teens in North America. Screened over the course of four weeks throughout NYC, the Festival program is comprised of approximately 100 short and feature films, filmmaker Q&As, retrospective programs, parties, and premieres. Audience members of all ages vote on the Festival-winning films. The Festival is an Academy Award® qualifying festival, one of only four film festivals in New York State – and only two children’s film festivals in the country – to hold that honor.
The Festival is a 501(c)(3) non-profit arts organization.