Kyrgyzstan’s First Animation Festival to Launch This September – ToonDook Festival
Skwigly
The vibrant heart of Central Asia is about to light up with animation! The ToonDook International Animation Festival will launch its first-ever edition this September in Bishkek, making history as the very first animation festival in Kyrgyzstan.
Organized by ToonDook Animation Studio, with the support of the French Institute, Goethe-Institut, and the Creative Industries Park (CIP), the festival is a bold step toward placing Kyrgyz animation on the global stage.
Submissions
For its first edition, there will be two competition categories: International Short Animated Films and Kyrgyz Short Animated Films. Submissions are currently open on the newly established FilmFreeway page, and can be submitted here until 27th August 2025: filmfreeway.com/ToonDookFest
The 2025 jury features animation professionals from France, Germany, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.
Festival Program
Taking place between 13-14 September 2025, the ToonDook International Animation Festival will place a strong spotlight on Kyrgyz animation, aiming to nurture and amplify local voices. Some of the program highlights this year will include:
- Screenings from local & international animation talents
- Masterclasses by renowned animators
- Workshops and lectures for students & emerging artists
- Professional panels on art education and animation festivals
- Cultural events and exhibitions
Special guests will include directors, producers, and festival organizers from across the region, offering unique insights into the evolving animation landscape.
You can stay up to date with jury, guest, and program announcements on the festival’s Instagram or Telegram channel.