BAMkids Film Festival 2027: Global Animation and Children's Shorts Due November 16
The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) has opened a global call for films for BAMkids Film Festival 2027, scheduled for February 6 and 7 in Brooklyn, New York. Submissions close on November 16, 2026. The program seeks short, imaginative films for young viewers and families. Animation creators, independent filmmakers, documentary storytellers and artists combining techniques can participate if their films are appropriate for a family-facing festival.
The creative focus
BAM specifically seeks joyful, thoughtful and diverse storytelling that sparks curiosity and gives children new perspectives on culture and the world. Eligible formats include animation, live action, documentary and hybrid filmmaking. A film does not need to follow a conventional educational lesson, but prospective entrants should critically assess its age-appropriateness, language, audience and running time under the linked festival rules.
Current application costs and dates
The organizer lists an early-bird period at $10 ending August 28, followed by a regular $15 period through October 9. As of late October the active late-entry price is $20, available until November 16. Selected filmmakers are scheduled to be notified by December 11, 2026. Applications are submitted through the FilmFreeway link provided by BAM; this is an entry fee, not a refundable deposit or a commission.
What to prepare
Prepare a film screener with reliable access, synopsis, running time, production credits, contact information and materials demonstrating that all music, animation assets and third-party footage can be shown in public. English subtitles or appropriate language presentation may be needed for international entries; consult FilmFreeway's full terms for the current technical and rights requirements. Entry does not guarantee screening or travel support.
About BAM
Brooklyn Academy of Music is an established U.S. performing and moving-image institution with programming in film, music, theatre and contemporary art. BAMkids is a continuing family-focused program, and the organizer's site displays festival history and references from previously selected filmmakers. The official BAM page is the reliable starting point for the current call rather than an unsolicited third-party invitation.
Final submission deadline: November 16, 2026. Festival dates: February 6–7, 2027.
Official organizer and application source
Information checked October 24, 2026. Check the organizer's current rules before applying, paying fees or making travel plans.