The first movies we see in life stay with us forever. So, to experience the art of cinema from childhood onward, the International Children’s Film Festival returns once again to Mexico City and the State of Mexico for its 31st edition.
With an incredible program spanning three weekends, girls, boys, and adults alike will be able to enjoy the best of international cinema during this school break. We’ll tell you everything that’s in store so you can start planning your trip with the little ones in the family!
What is the 2026 International Children’s Film Festival?
For more than thirty years, La Matatena Asociación de Cine para Niñas y Niños A.C. has been organizing this incredibly fun festival so that young audiences can discover fascinating stories from different cultures and languages on the big screen.
For this 31st edition, 26 guest countries (including Germany, Austria, Canada, Norway, and Chile, among others) will participate with a variety of films suitable for children.
What will be featured during this year’s festival?
This is an experience that goes beyond just sitting in front of a screen! So if you’re wondering what to do during vacation with kids in Mexico City, keep in mind that this festival will feature unmissable activities designed to foster an appreciation for film, imagination, and fun from an early age.
This year, there will be an Animation Workshop (for ages 6 to 13) at Estudios Churubusco from July 27 to 31—perfect if you’re looking for a cultural activity that brings out a child’s artistic side.
There will also be a Master Class, international guests, and a wonderful Children’s Jury, where kids will participate in choosing their favorite films.
The lineup for the 31st edition includes 9 feature films, 3 documentaries, and 61 short films ranging from fiction and animation to some made by children from Mexico and other parts of the world. Check out the titles at www.lamatatena.org!
Where and when will the 2026 International Children’s Film Festival take place?
Mark your calendar—you already have something to do during your vacation in Mexico City! The International Children’s Film Festival will take place from August 8 to 23, only on Saturdays and Sundays, at various venues and times.
You can visit the festival at the Cineteca Nacional (the Xoco, CENART, and Chapultepec locations), the Julio Bracho Hall at the University Cultural Center, Cinematógrafo del Chopo, Cinemanía, the Yancuic Museum, FARO de Oriente, Aragón, Miacatlán, and Tláhuac, as well as in the municipality of Ecatepec.
Check out which venue is most convenient for you and head out with the little ones in your life for a one-of-a-kind trip to the movies.
