From 17 to 24 August 2025, Conversano will host the 23rd edition of IMAGINARIA, the International Festival of Authorial Animated Cinema. Imaginaria is an event that has gained international recognition and represents a path of profound local cultural innovation. Imaginaria is born, lives, and transforms in the heart of the art city of Conversano, particularly within spaces of outstanding architectural and artistic value (Aragonese Castle, San Benedetto Complex, Cathedral Square, historic squares).

Imaginaria: the art of animation for everyone

Imaginaria is the first and only international festival in Puglia entirely dedicated to authorial animated cinema. Founded in 2003, it has established itself on the international scene as a landmark cultural event, capable of combining artistic quality with local community involvement.

It is not just an event, but a long-term cultural project: it promotes the knowledge and dissemination of animated cinema throughout the year, bringing together enthusiasts, families, students, and the curious who wish to live a unique experience between art, community, and territory.

Animated stories in the most beautiful places of Puglia

Every August, Imaginaria transforms the historic center of Conversano into an open-air stage for great authorial animated cinema. Among castles, churches, and squares, the festival offers international screenings, meetings with directors, workshops, exhibitions, concerts, and activities for all ages.

A unique event, capable of bringing adults, young people, and children closer to the world of animation, illustration, and comics. The friendly atmosphere, the quality of the program, and the direct contact with authors and artists make Imaginaria an authentic cultural experience, participatory and deeply rooted in the community.

📍 The meetings will take place in the most evocative locations of the historic center, such as:

• Monastery of Saint Benedict
• the Church of St. Clare
• the Marangelli Civic Library

When and Where

📆 From 14 to 24 September 2025
📍 Conversano (BA) – Historic Center
🎟️ Eventi gratuiti e a pagamento
📚 XXIII edizione del festival internazionale del cinema d’animazione d’autore

Discover this year’s theme, guests, venues, and related events by checking out the full program online:

👉 https://imaginaria.eu/

Useful Tips for Visitors

Arrive a little early
The most anticipated events may attract large audiences, especially on weekends. For events that require booking, we recommend checking the website and reserving in advance.

Check the festival map
Many events take place in different locations, all within walking distance in the historic center. Check the travel time between appointments to plan your day efficiently.

Make the most of the time between events
Passeggia nel borgo, visita una mostra, concediti una pausa nei caffè del centro o tra i chiostri storici. Imaginaria è anche un’occasione per scoprire la magia di Conversano.

Why you can’t miss it

Because Imaginaria is much more than a festival: it is a living, inclusive, and deeply human experience.

Here you can meet directors, authors, and illustrators from all over the world up close, take part in workshops, labs, and exhibitions designed for both adults and children, in a welcoming and accessible atmosphere. Imaginaria takes you on a journey through different stories, visions, and cultures, weaving together cinema, illustration, comics, and music in an original and engaging program. And it all happens in the heart of Conversano, among art, history, nature, and gastronomy, offering a stay full of inspiration and beauty.

A festival that leaves something behind, both on and off the screen.