Some 5,000 industry professionals representing 70 countries are expected to gather in the small French town of Annecy in late May for a one-week immersion in the animation industry.

A combination of festival and market, and a hot venue for deal-making and professional development, Annecy has become a crucial meeting place for any professional involved in animation and children’s programming.

Many professionals view Annecy, held every two years, as a chance to get updated on the competitive environment and the important issues facing the industry, in addition to maintaining contacts with old and new acquaintances.

This year, 1,248 films were entered into the festival competition and 270 were selected. Screenings will be held throughout the week, showing the selected films as well as a series of tributes and retrospectives honoring great names in animation. Prizes are awarded in six categories.

Annecy will also feature an expanded job fair, providing industry talent with a chance to learn more about the business and to meet with studio executives.

Conferences and seminars also take place throughout the event. The main sessions will address such issues as new technologies and emerging markets through satellite and cable distribution.

The festival is also open to the public. About 100,000 people are expected to participate in the screenings in regular auditorium settings and a large outdoor screen facility. French broadcaster Canal+ plans to broadcast two shows from Annecy during the final weekend of the event.