18th Krakow Summer Animation Days
Three open-air summer evenings of prizewinning and experimental animated films on the Vistula overlooking Wawel Castle.
Krakow Summer Animation Days is an open-air showcase of some of the most exciting animated films from Poland and around the world, organized by the Etiuda&Anima Foundation. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Vistula River and overlooking Wawel Castle, the event offers audiences an opportunity to discover award-winning films from major international festivals and explore the work of emerging talents in contemporary animation. Over the course of three summer evenings, we will present some of the most outstanding animated films of the past season. The programme includes short films awarded and honoured by the Polish Filmmakers Association in 2025 , as well as films recognised at the 32nd International Film Festival Etiuda&Anima . The programme will also feature Architects of Imagination , a special selection of films by emerging female artists celebrated for their originality, fresh perspectives and exceptional craftsmanship. The festival offers a broad overview of the most compelling trends in contemporary animation: bold, diverse and constantly searching for new forms of expression. On Friday evening, audiences will be invited into a world inspired by the work of David Lynch , filled with surrealism, mystery and ambiguity. Saturday's special programme, Bestiary , will take viewers on a journey through dark, extraordinary and fantastical stories inhabited by strange creatures and animated nightmares. The programme also includes acclaimed feature-length animated films that have enjoyed success at major international festivals. This year's edition will open with Little Amélie (dir. Maïlys Vallade, Liane-Cho Han, France, 2025) , nominated for both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature. Audiences will also have a chance to see a restored version of the cult classic Angel's Egg by Japanese visionary director Mamoru Oshii . The film programme will be complemented by free stop-motion animation workshops for children, led by Daria Godyń. Participants will have an opportunity to learn the basics of animation filmmaking and develop their creativity through playful experimentation with image and movement.
