Nearly ten years after its inception, a recurring festival showcasing Studio Ghibli films continues to attract increasing audiences across the United States. The event, known as Ghibli Fest, offers annual theatrical revivals of the acclaimed Japanese animation studio’s work, drawing in devoted fans and new viewers alike.

The festival runs sporadically from June through October, screening beloved titles such as *My Neighbor Totoro*, *Spirited Away*, and *Ponyo*. It has evolved into a near-constant presence in American cinemas, functioning more like an extended movie marathon than a traditional festival. The screenings take place across various venues, ranging from multiplexes to arthouses, and have become a yearly tradition for many families.

One such family is that of Amanda Mendoza Van Cleave from Austin, Texas, who regularly attends the festival with her three-year-old daughter and mother. For them, the screenings are a special bonding ritual, filled with moments like their recent matching Totoro pajamas on an outing to watch the 1988 classic *My Neighbor Totoro*. This enthusiasm captures the essence of the festival’s appeal, which bridges generational gaps and introduces a fresh audience to Studio Ghibli’s distinctive storytelling.

The festival was launched in 2017 by GKIDS, the North American distributor for Studio Ghibli, in partnership with Fathom Entertainment. Initially, it featured five films and generated approximately $5 million in box office sales. However, the event’s popularity has surged in recent years, including following the availability of Studio Ghibli titles on the streaming platform HBO Max starting in 2020. This access has not diminished interest in theatrical viewings; rather, it appears to have broadened the fan base.

GKIDS president Dave Jesteadt noted that the festival has consistently defied expectations, with ticket sales increasing annually. The most successful year to date was 2024, when 14 films grossed $16.4 million. Last year saw eight titles earn $10.6 million. This year’s lineup has already featured multiple popular titles, including *Ponyo* and *My Neighbor Totoro*, each enjoying extended five-day runs.

When GKIDS acquired the rights to the Studio Ghibli catalogue in 2011, the Japanese studio emphasized the importance of maintaining theatrical releases. Early retrospectives were confined primarily to major cities and arthouses, but the establishment of Ghibli Fest expanded screenings to a larger, nationwide audience. This strategic move has exposed many younger viewers to animated narratives beyond the traditional Disney canon.

The festival also celebrates significant anniversaries of landmark films. The current schedule includes *Tales of Earthsea*, *Only Yesterday*, the 40th anniversary screening of *Castle in the Sky*, a 4K remastered version of *Princess Mononoke*, and a 25th anniversary showing of *Spirited Away*. While some of these revivals occur internationally, Ghibli Fest remains a distinctly American phenomenon.

Beyond the screenings, Studio Ghibli’s cultural influence has spurred related events like the Ponyo exhibit at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles and composer Joe Hisaishi’s music tour, including a seven-night residency at New York’s Radio City Music Hall.

Attendees frequently cite the communal experience as a major attraction. Angela Lecot, a 27-year-old fan who has dressed as Sophie from *Howl’s Moving Castle* for screenings, emphasized the value of gathering with fellow enthusiasts. “Being in the theatre is so much more fun than being on HBO Max,” she said. The chance to discuss films and connect with others enhances the appeal of watching these classics on the big screen.

While the festival predominantly highlights well-known titles, some fans express interest in deeper cuts from the Studio Ghibli archive, such as the pre-studio film *Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind* (1984). Nonetheless, the enduring popularity of the core catalogue underscores the timeless quality of Studio Ghibli’s work.

As Van Cleave observed, Studio Ghibli’s stories resonate across generations and social circles. Her daughter recently connected with a schoolmate who also enjoys the films, leading to shared theater visits and new friendships. For many, Ghibli Fest is not just a cinematic event but a vibrant cultural gathering that continues to grow in both scope and significance.