Discover a film summer camp unlike any other

Are you a developing young filmmaker or animator with a passion for storytelling? Do you have an eye for cinematography? Is it your dream to transport an audience to another world?

Whatever your creative ambitions are, you’ll take your talents to the next level at Interlochen Arts Camp. Explore film programs for grades 3–12.

 

Student creates a spinning animation wheel by hand

What does Interlochen Arts Camp have to offer?

Interlochen Arts Camp is the premiere summer camp for young filmmakers and animators in grades 3–12, with programs in a variety of subjects and skill levels. Depending on age, sessions range from one-, two-, four-, and six-week program options that will challenge and inspire you to reach your potential. 

When you come to Interlochen this summer, you will:

  • Film and animate movies in a beautiful natural setting
  • Work with incredible guest artists, filmmakers, animators and directors
  • Forge friendships with students from around the world
  • Grow your skills and talents in film and animation
  • Enjoy all the fun of camp including cabin games, traditions, outdoor activities

Areas of Focus

Film

Immerse yourself in the world of film this summer. You’ll learn techniques and tools of the trade from our gifted faculty members, all while working with professional-grade equipment.

Animation

Work with drawings, paintings, sculptures, or objects to create your own short film—then see it screened in a 4K HD projection space at the final student showcase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dates vary by age and program of interest.

One-week Intensives (Grades 9–12): June 15-21

Two-week sessions (Grades 3-6): June 23–July 6; July 7–July 20; July 21–Aug. 3

Three-week sessions (Grades 6–12): June 23–July 13; July 14–Aug. 4

Four-week sessions (Grades 3-6): June 23–July 20; July 7–Aug. 3

Six-week sessions (Grades 6-12): June 23–Aug. 4

The priority application is Jan. 15. We will continue to welcome applications after Jan. 15 as space permits. In 2023, over 3,000 students attended Interlochen Arts Camp, so the earlier a student can apply the better. Applying early gives you priority consideration for scholarship opportunities, for your first choice program, and gives you time to plan ahead.

We believe that each and every talented student who is offered admission should be able to attend Interlochen Arts Camp. 85% of families that apply for assistance receive financial aid. Need- and merit-based financial aid is available, and financial need does not affect admission.

Interlochen exists to help artists develop and improve, so it is most important that students showcase potential to learn and a capacity for continued growth. Students are not expected to be "perfect." We recommend that you learn more about Interlochen, visit our campus, or apply.

Interlochen's beautiful 1,200 acre campus is located in the northwest corner of Michigan's lower peninsula, near Traverse City. By car, we are about four hours from Detroit, and six hours from Chicago. Our region is served by Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which offers multiple daily flights to and from Chicago and Detroit, and seasonal service to/from Minneapolis, New York City, and Newark.

What People Are Saying

“I feel grateful knowing that Arts Camp cares about cultivating my gifts. Interlochen just made me want to pursue filmmaking even more."

Darian, Film & New Media

© 2023 Interlochen Center for the Arts All rights Reserved.

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