Animation Festival 2026
Step into a world of imagination at the 2026 Animation Festival, celebrating the art and influence of anime from the 1960s to today. Featuring beloved titles like Astro Boy, Sailor Moon, Batman Ninja, and more. The festival showcases the enduring magic of animation across generations.
The day includes performances by area youth and conversations with industry professionals exploring the cultural impact of anime in the media.
Arrive early for pre-show activities starting at 11:00 AM:
- Pokémon tournament
- Video games provided by Super Rad Arcade
- Japanese Block Printing Art provided by University of Lynchburg’s Daura Gallery
- Character drawing workshops
- Cosplay contest, and more!
11:30 AM – House opens
12:00 – 1:00 PM – Welcome & Introduction with Michelline
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Animation Spotlights
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Astro Boy (S1 E1) | 25 min | TV-7+
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Inuyasha (S1 E1) | 24 min | TV-PG
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More Animation Spotlights
1:00 – 1:15 PM – Intermission
1:15 – 1:30 PM – Linkhorne Middle School Performance
1:30 – 3:06 PM – Boruto: Naruto the Movie | 96 min | PG
3:06 – 3:15 PM – Intermission
3:15 – 4:40 PM – Batman Ninja | 85 min | PG-13
Bring the whole family and enjoy a day of exciting animation, amazing performances, and a celebration of your favorite animated stories!
Support the fight against hunger by donating canned goods at the Knights of Columbus table during the Animation Festival.
Sponsored By:
Bo & Flo Hall
Know before you go:
Accessibility & Sensory Advisory
Please visit this page to learn more about accessibility at our venues.
Some performances may include flashing lights, strobing effects, loud sounds, haze, or other sensory elements. Guests with photosensitive conditions, hearing sensitivities, or other health concerns should review show information in advance or contact us at boxoffice@academycenter.org for guidance.
Age Requirement
All patrons, regardless of age, must have a ticket for this event unless otherwise stated. All ages are welcome.
Camera Policy
Videography and audio recording during the performances are prohibited. Photography of the set on stage is allowed pre-show, post-show, and during intermission. But we do ask that you show our designers and visiting performers some love by crediting them (and by tagging us) in your social media posts.
Content Advisory
The Academy Center of the Arts offers a diverse selection of entertainment. Not all productions may appeal to or be appropriate for every guest or for all ages. Ticket buyers should take responsibility for making informed decisions regarding their purchases. We recommend visiting the official show website of each show you are coming to see at the Academy. If you ever have questions about the content or appropriateness of a show, please contact us at boxoffice@academycenter.org.
Doors Open
Unless otherwise noted, our lobby doors open 60 minutes prior to show time and house doors open 30 minutes prior to show time for seating.
Parking & Directions
Parking is available on-site and throughout downtown Lynchburg. Our parking map (linked below) shows all of the free public and paid parking available. In addition, street parking is also available on most streets.
Ticketing Policies
Ticketing purchases are non-refundable. By purchasing a ticket to an event at The Academy Center of the Arts, you are agreeing to our ticketing policy. View our full ticketing policy.
Volunteer
Want to volunteer and see this show for free? Contact Kyle Greaney, kgreaney@academycenter.org, for more information.