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New York International Children's Film Festival

By Siobhan
Last updated at 11:11:00 AM on 10 February 2012

The New York International Children's Film Festival began in 1998 and has grown every year since. Today, films from all over the world, well-known film makers, and celebrities take part in the event. The event is for all ages, with a biased towards those aged three to 18.

The film festival takes place at the IFC Center, 323 Sixth Avenue at West Third Street in Manhattan, making it a great addition to your travel itinerary, as most travellers stay in New York hotels located in Manhattan, the main hub of the city.

The 2012 festival takes place from 2 - 25 March, with 100 films expected to screen. Besides getting to watch soon to be released films, you can also attend question and answer sessions with filmmakers, and take part in a filmmaking workshop. This year's workshops teach animation, cartoons, and how to make a digital short in the moviemaking master class. The workshops are a great way for kids to get some first hand help and experience in filmmaking. It also gives them a rare chance to ask experts questions face-to-face. However, the workshops are expensive, most cost $600 and some even cost $1,000. There is a way for eligible students to get access to the workships if the come from a low-income family. Scholarships covering the full price of each workshop are available. You can also get a chance to see some of the festival by applying to be an intern or volunteer at the event.

Ticket prices vary depending on what part of the event you want to take part in. The most expensive option is the All-Access VIP Pass, which costs $300. The pass gives you access to all screenings and priority access so you don't have to stand in line very long.

One of the most acclaimed films screenings at the event is 'The Secret of Kells.' Kids will definitely love the magical Celtic folklore mixed with traditional morals of persevering through hard times. It was nominated for an Academy Award and critics are loving it. Ella Taylor from 'Village Voice' said it was "Raputurous! Stunning! A riot of color." And Claudi Puig from USA Today said it was "Fanciful and captivating! Gorgeous and uplifting!"

Some of the other films have a much more serious theme and would only be suitable for older kids such as, Tahaan. It covers just about every emotion and is set against a backdrop of war as a young boy goes in search of his missing pet.

The best film showing at the festival for younger kids is 'Eleanor's Secret.' It is a fun, animated story that is about a magical library. It features characters from some of the most popular children's stories that the kids will have fun recognising.

The IFC Center is located close to NYU School of Law and you will find several New York City hotels in the area including the Washington Square Hotel which is situated in the center of Washington Square Park.