The 24 HOURS Animation Contest for Students returns for its 23rd year on Friday, October 3, 2025 (3pm PT) – Saturday, October 4, 2025 (4pm PT).
Over the years, more than 15,000 students from 240 schools in 35 countries have participated. Last year alone, prizes totaled over $100K+, and this year 7 teams will win amazing prize packs. The contest is free to enter, and equipment support is available for students in need.
WHAT is it?
A FREE 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 26, 2024 11:59pm PT (with faculty advisor)
- Contest runs worldwide at the same time: Oct 3, 3pm PT – Oct 4, 4pm PT.
- 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 • China • Chile • Czech Republic • Denmark • Estonia • France • Germany • Great Britain • Hong Kong • India • Iran • Ireland • Italy • Israel • Jamaica • Kenya • Lebanon • Mexico • New Zealand • Nigeria • Pakistan • Philippines • Puerto Rico • Russia • Scotland • South Africa • Spain • Taiwan • Thailand • Turkey • UK • USA…Don’t see your country? Register today!
The Animation Community Supports YOU!
In 2024 we awarded over $100,000 in prizes (including cash) from the massive generosity of our past sponsors which have included; Toon Boom, ASIFA-Hollywood/Animation Educators Forum, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Netflix, Sony Pictures Animation, Illumination, Cartoon Saloon, XPPen, Bento Box, Nickelodeon Animation Studios and NICE, DreamWorks, Titmouse, CSU Summer Arts, TAAFI, Wacom, TVPaint, DigiCel, Huion, CRC Press, Xencelabs, CTNX, X in a Box, Legends Animated, Mac Hollywood, Stuart NG Books, Indee, Animation is Film and more!
How can you SUPPORT the Contest?
For 23 years, we’ve kept this contest 100% free. To help sustain it, we invite schools and teams to make an optional $25 donation per team (only $5 per student). Contributions help us:
- Keep entry free for everyone
- Provide equipment for students in need
- Fund prizes for winners
- Keep the staff working extended hours to accommodate growth
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
*all donations are tax deductible (fiscally sponsored by Legends Animated, a 501c3 nonprofit). All donations above $5 will be given a chance to win our 2025 prize giveaway for a Wacom Intuos Pro Small! Every $5 donation provides one entry (ex. your name will be submitted four times with a $20 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 5, 2026.