Animation Dingle Announces International Line-Up for 14th Festival
Posted: 13th March 2026
Animation Dingle, one of Europe’s premier animation festivals, has announced its highly anticipated 2026 edition. Now in its 14th year, the festival will take place from 19–21 March 2026 in Dingle, Co. Kerry, bringing together leading voices in animation for a vibrant programme of screenings, talks, workshops and industry events. Internationally renowned studios and creators including The Jim Henson Company, Aardman Animations, Bill Plympton and Karey Kirkpatrick are among those featured in this year’s programme.
This year's theme “Connected By Stories”, explores the power of storytelling to connect people, cultures and generations. The conference features a keynote panel exploring Irish mythology and folklore in contemporary animation and discusses how traditional stories are being reimagined for modern audiences at home and abroad.
Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive, Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland, said:
Screen Ireland is proud to support Animation Dingle this year as its official Industry Partner. The festival is an important opportunity for international broadcasters, producers and distributors to meet and connect with Ireland’s exceptional animation talent and world-class studios. The Animation Dingle programme highlights the strength, creativity and global impact of Irish animation, and we look forward to another inspiring showcase of animated storytelling.”
Highlights of Animation Dingle 2026 include:
70 Years of The Jim Henson Company: A special presentation celebrating the studio’s legacy with Bryan O’Connell, Vice President of Children’s Television, and Tara Billik, Vice President of Features.
Adapting Our Folklore for the Modern Screen: A keynote panel featuring Tomm Moore (Cartoon Saloon), Trevor Courtney (Igloo Animations), Gráinne McGuinness (Paper Owl Films) and Vanessa Robinson (Little Moon Animation).
Celebrating 50 Years of Aardman Animations: Shape-Shifting for 50 Years in Clay, a special session with Aardman co-founder Peter Lord.
Strange Stories with Bill Plympton: A special workshop with the legendary independent animator and two-time Academy Award® nominee.
In Conversation with Karey Kirkpatrick: Screenwriter and director behind films including Chicken Run, James and the Giant Peach, Over the Hedge and The Spiderwick Chronicles, hosted by Jean Kitson of Kitson Press.
StoryToys Careers and Recruitment Fair: Supported by StoryToys and featuring Irish animation studios and colleges including Boulder Media, Animation Ireland, Kerry College and Pulse College.
Screenings: A diverse selection of animated films, shorts and series from around the world, spanning a wide range of genres and animation styles.
Workshops: Hands-on sessions led by industry experts offering insights into animation craft, from character design to storytelling techniques.
Panel Discussions: Conversations with leading figures in animation exploring emerging trends, technological advancements and the future of animation.
Networking Opportunities: Opportunities for attendees to connect with fellow animators, industry professionals and potential collaborators.
THE WRITER’S CONFESSIONAL - New this Year! A relaxed, confessional-style space where students can talk openly with industry professionals about developing and pitching their feature, series or short. A supportive conversation focused on sharing tools, experiences and the joy of writing.
John Rice, Co Founder, JAM Media, said:
Animation Dingle began as a bridge between students and industry, and has grown into a community where artists, students and storytellers gather to share ideas, build connections and celebrate the timeless tradition of storytelling. It is a place where technology and creativity meet — reminding us that while the tools may change, the human need to tell and share stories never does.”
Discover the full programme of the 2026 Animation Dingle edition here.