The International Children's Film Festival "Krustalny Istochnik" ran in Yessentuki, Russia, from August 1 to 8, 2026, drawing more than 3,000 spectators under the theme "One for all, and all for one!"
Twelve teams from nine cities in Russia and Armenia filmed and screened their own movies during the week, trained with mentors, and met guests including Hero of Russia and cosmonaut Fyodor Yurchikhin. They also attended plays by students of the Russian State University of Cinematography, visited exhibitions, watched a concert by the competing teams, and were introduced to a new book marking Yessentuki's 200th anniversary.
Closing ceremony
The festival closed with its traditional ceremony in the city center, featuring a red carpet, camera flashes, applause, confetti and fireworks that drew tourists from across Russia. The Caucasian dance ensemble "Druzhba Narodov" performed in the Art School's Grand Hall, followed by violinist Valery Vorona, actress Olga Kabo and actress Viktoria Maslova, both Honored Artists of Russia, and students of the Krustalny Istochnik film and theater school.
Festival president Evklid Kyurdzidis closed the event after the festival's anthem played. He said children should not be denied a happy childhood even in difficult times, and that investing in the development of Stavropol Krai's young filmmakers would help them become truly happy and successful.
