Chicago International Children's Film Festival
Major legitimate festival with strong credentials
The Chicago International Children's Film Festival (CICFF) is the largest and oldest annual festival of films for children ages 2–18 in the world, screening over 250 animated and live-action films from 40+ countries [1][4]. It is notable for being the first competitive children's film festival in the United States and the first Academy Award-qualifying children's film festival globally, with winners in Live-Action Short and Animated Short categories eligible for Oscar submission [3][4]. Founded in 1983 by Facets Multi-Media, the festival empowers youth by including children in its jurying process and offers hands-on filmmaking workshops alongside screenings [1][4].
Last updated Jul 16, 2026
Legitimacy Analysis
Positive Indicators (+53 pts)
- Oscar Qualifying Festival
- 43 years of verifiable history
- Physical screenings at 1517 W. Fullerton Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60614 United States
- Verified trusted status
Red Flags (-0 pts)
No red flags found
Festival Details
Founded
1983
Venue
1517 W. Fullerton Avenue Chicago, Illinois 60614 United States
Screenings
Physical screenings confirmed
Award Categories
1
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