The second annual event is set for April 10–12 at Lipscomb University, featuring a large lineup of activities, major industry guests, and the official declaration of Tennessee’s first ‘Animation Day.’
Animation Y’all Expo will return to Lipscomb University in Nashville April 10–12, 2026 for its second annual event, expanding its programming slate while coinciding with the official declaration of April 11 as ‘Animation Day’ in Tennessee. The three-day professional animation expo will feature panels, workshops, masterclasses, portfolio reviews, networking opportunities, and an expanded exhibitor presence.
Founded in 2025 by veteran animation directors Tom Bancroft and Tony Bancroft, the event has positioned itself as a regional hub connecting animation professionals, students, studios, educators, and creative leaders across Tennessee and the broader Southern United States. Organizers report that the 2026 edition builds on the momentum of its sold-out debut with increased scale and industry participation.
The 2026 lineup includes top animation industry names like Andreas Deja, Aaron Blaise, Mel Milton, John Pomeroy, Nathan Engelhardt, Scott Christian Sava, and Stephen Silver, representing experience across Disney, DreamWorks, DC Comics, and other major studios. Programming is designed to combine industry access with professional development through direct engagement opportunities.
"Animation Y’all was created to build meaningful bridges between students and the industry," said co-founders Tom and Tony Bancroft. "From the beginning, our goal has been to create a space where artists can connect, learn, and grow together. Seeing students form real career pathways, studios actively engaging, and the state recognizing animation’s impact has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s only the beginning."
"I’m honored to be part of Animation Y’all 2026," said Deja. "Any opportunity to inspire the next generation, especially alongside so many respected artists, is incredibly meaningful."
In a milestone for the state’s animation sector, Tennessee State Representative Mark White, Chairman of the House Education Committee, has officially designated April 11, 2026 as “Animation Day.” The recognition aligns with the expo and reflects broader efforts to position animation as a growing creative and economic sector in the state.
The designation follows advocacy from the Tennessee Animation Association, a nonprofit formed to support statewide industry development through education, partnerships, and awareness initiatives. The organization has worked in alignment with the expo’s mission to elevate animation’s profile across Tennessee.
The exhibitor floor will expand to nearly 90 participants, including studios, organizations, and independent artists. Major sponsors include DreamWorks Animation, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Skydance Animation, PBS Kids, Bento Box Atlanta, Animation Mentor, Gnomon, Shining Isle Productions, ToonBoom, Minno, Armada, and Lipscomb University, along with additional regional partners and independent studios.
Lipscomb University, which hosts the event, continues to serve as a central partner through its animation program within the George Shinn College of Entertainment & the Arts. The university will again integrate its senior portfolio day into the expo, allowing students to present work directly to studios in a concentrated setting.
The 2026 event will also feature four ticketed masterclasses led by Aaron Blaise, Samuel Michlap, Andreas Deja, and Mel Milton, covering topics including animal animation, world-building, independent short film production, and character posing. Deja’s session will include insights into the development of his animated short Mushka.
A Saturday night special event titled Here’s the Pitch will feature presentations from Tom Bancroft, Jon Densk, Nathan Engelhardt, and Aaron Blaise, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how animation projects are developed and positioned for funding and distribution.
Tickets for the event are currently on sale, with discounted student pricing available. Additional programming details and registration information are available through the event’s official website.
Source: Animation Y’all Expo
Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.
