The 21st China International Cartoon & Animation Festival will be held in Hangzhou from May 29 to June 2. [Photo/CICAF]

The 21st China International Cartoon & Animation Festival (CICAF) will be held in Hangzhou from May 29 to June 2, marking the start of a new chapter for China's largest and most influential animation event.

Since its inception in 2005 and permanent settlement in Hangzhou in 2006, CICAF has become a vibrant platform celebrating animation as both an industry and a cultural phenomenon.

This year's edition introduces a new vision for its next 20 years, with six main focuses:

Animation + Technology: For the first time, a "Tech + Animation" zone will showcase cutting-edge innovations, including AI animation, VR, exoskeletons, and lifelike busts of Black Myth: Wukong. A drone light show will debut along the Qiantang River, alongside AI-powered voice acting contests and AIGC-themed masterclasses.

Premieres & Debuts: Nearly 2,000 IPs from over 350 companies will debut at the festival, including limited-edition collectibles and the first large-scale exhibition of Black Myth: Wukong. China Media Group will also debut 20 globally successful Chinese IPs during its "CPOPwave" event.

Animation + Tourism: CICAF will expand into a full animation season, blending city and countryside attractions with themed tours, immersive exhibitions, and anime-infused local festivals. Highlights include nighttime light shows, anime parades, and themed metro stations and taxis.

Animation + Livelihood: Events will target all age groups — from children's workshops to senior cosplay and exhibitions celebrating patriotic themes, integrity, and national defense. A special silver cosplayers performance and inclusive activities ensure wide public engagement.

Global Exchange: Delegations from 42 countries and regions — including Disney, RAFA, Mediawan, and South Korean and Hong Kong groups — will participate. Overseas promotion will expand to Moscow, Florence, Zagreb, and Annecy through CICAF's Watch My 72 Transformations campaign.

Talent Development: Masterclasses, animation competitions, and job fairs will nurture the next generation of industry professionals. Over 200 job positions will be offered, and special programs like the Youth Animators Growth Plan will spotlight emerging talent.

Under the theme "Let's be the destiny-bearers of Chinese animation", this year's CICAF continues its mission as a "festival of animation, celebration for the people", inviting fans, creators, and global partners to share in Hangzhou's creative energy.

The "CPOPwave" event in Xiaoshan district focuses on the idea of Chinese pop culture going global. [Photo/CICAF]