The Stuttgart International Festival of Animated Film (ITFS) is one of the leading festivals for artistic animation. With around 70,000 visitors each year, it is among the largest film festivals in Germany in terms of audience attendance and the second-largest animation film festival in Europe. Since its founding in 1982, ITFS has developed into a key meeting point for the international animation industry, the emerging creative scene and a broad regional audience.

Each year, the festival transforms Stuttgart’s city centre into a hub of animation for one week. Competitions, curated film programmes, talks and interactive formats present the full spectrum of animated filmmaking – from artistic short and feature films, which are increasingly rare in commercial cinemas, to innovative games. The free Open Air screenings at Schlossplatz and the GameZone invite audiences to discover animation, digital games and new forms of interactive experiences in the public space.

With programmes specifically designed for families, children, young people and school groups under the umbrella of Young ITFS, the festival promotes media literacy, participation and emerging creative talent. As an international meeting place for filmmakers and audiences, the ITFS highlights cultural diversity and brings democratic values to life. In this way, the ITFS creates space for discussion about stories, perspectives and social issues.

ITFS is organised by Film- und Medienfestival gGmbH on behalf of its shareholders: the City of Stuttgart, Wirtschaftsförderung Region Stuttgart and the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg (representing the State of Baden-Württemberg).