The 24 HOURS Animation Contest for Students returns for its 24th year on Friday, October 2, 2026 (15:00 PDT) – Saturday, October 3, 2026 (16:00 PDT).
Over the years, more than 20,000 students from 270 schools in 46+ countries have participated. Last year alone, prizes totaled over $120K+, and this year 7 teams will win amazing prize packs.
WHAT is it?
An international event where students compete in teams of 5 to create a mind-blowing 30-second animated film in just 24 HOURS. That's right – ONE DAY to go from concept to finished film! Here's the kicker: You won't know the theme until the contest starts. No prep work allowed. Just pure, adrenaline-fueled creativity under pressure. View past films here: YouTube Playlist.
HOW does it work?
- Teams must be registered by Friday Sep 25, 2026 23:59 PDT (details below)
- Contest runs worldwide at the same time: Friday, October 2, 2026 (15:00 PDT) – Saturday, October 3, 2026 (16:00 PDT).
- Completed films are submitted via YouTube link before the deadline (no late entries).
- Industry experts will judge. Prizes awarded to the top 5 college teams, Best High School Team, and a Behind-the-Scenes Prize.
WHY participate?
This challenge teaches teamwork, deadlines, and creative problem-solving—all while being fun, fast, and inspiring. This is truly an International Animation Community when your students will animate at the same time as Students from every corner of the planet including: Australia • Brazil • Canada • Chile • China • Colombia • Cyprus • Czech Republic • Denmark • Ecuador • England • Estonia • France • Germany • Great Britain • Honduras • Hong Kong • Hungary • India • Indonesia • Iran • Ireland • Italy • Israel • Jamaica • Kenya • Lebanon • Mexico • New Zealand • Nigeria • Pakistan • Peru • Philippines • Puerto Rico • Russia • Scotland • South Africa • South Korea • Spain • Sweden • Taiwan • Thailand • Turkey • USA • Vietnam and Wales!…Don’t see your country? Register today!
The Animation Community Supports YOU!
In 2025 we awarded over $120,000 in prizes (including cash) from the massive generosity of our past sponsors which have included; Toon Boom, Lucasfilm Animation, Warner Bros Pictures Animation, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Netflix, XPpen, Wacom, Sony Pictures Animation, Skydance Animation, Nickelodeon Animation Studios, DreamWorks, Cartoon Saloon, Bento Box, Illumination, Titmouse, ASIFA-Hollywood/Animation Educators Forum, TAAFI, TVPaint, DigiCel, Animation Magazine, CRC Press, Legends Animated, Mac Hollywood, Xencelabs, Stuart NG Books, Story Experiential, Faber and Faber, Animation is Film and more
Registration Details:
The 24 HOURS Contest for Students is made possible by a small but dedicated team and the generous support of our sponsors. For the past 23 years, we’ve been proud to offer this contest completely free of charge, ensuring access for all students.
As the contest grows, so do the costs of bringing it to life. To help sustain this experience for thousands of students, we’re introducing a small, optional suggested donation this year. These donations are tax deductible, thanks to our 501c3 nonprofit fiscal sponsor, Legends Animated:
- $5 per student
- $25 per team
Why a donation?
Your contribution directly supports:
- Event logistics and resources
- Prizes and awards
- Accessibility for all participants, including financial assistance for those in need
We believe cost should never be a barrier.
If your team would benefit from financial assistance, please complete this form. We’ll review your request with care and ensure everyone who wants to participate has the opportunity to be part of this incredible experience.
After you donate be sure add your team and school in the comments so we can recognize you on our donor wall!
Questions?Email admin@24hourscontest.com or go www.24hourscontest.com
Thank you for supporting the next generation of creators, innovators, and changemakers!
*all donations are tax deductible (fiscally sponsored by Legends Animated, a 501c3 nonprofit). All donations above $25 will be given a chance to win our 2026 prize giveaway for a Wacom Intuos Pro Small! Every $25 donation provides one entry (ex. your name will be submitted four times with a $100 donation). Ask your employer or school to match your donation and mention your team name to help increase your entries! The winner will be announced on January 15, 2027