Cannes Lions

Undisputed global leader in advertising creativity awards and industry festival events, with no direct peer at the same scale or prestige

Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is the global benchmark for creative excellence in advertising, marketing, and communications. Founded in 1954, the festival brings together the world's leading creative professionals, brand marketers, media owners, and technology companies for a week-long event each June in Cannes, France. It awards Lions trophies across dozens of categories spanning film, digital, outdoor, PR, health, entertainment, and emerging technology, making a Cannes Lion the most coveted accolade in the advertising industry. Beyond the awards, Cannes Lions operates as a major industry conference featuring keynotes, seminars, workshops, and networking events attended by tens of thousands of delegates from over 90 countries. The festival serves as a critical platform for thought leadership, deal-making, and showcasing innovation across the creative and media industries. Its Lions Health, Lions Entertainment, and Lions Innovation sub-events address specialized verticals within the broader marketing ecosystem. Cannes Lions is owned by FTSE 250 events and information services company Ascential plc, which acquired it as part of its portfolio of business intelligence and events brands. The festival generates revenue through entry fees for award submissions, delegate passes, sponsorships, and partnerships with major holding groups, technology platforms, and brands. It holds an unrivaled position as the industry's flagship gathering, with participation from virtually every major advertising holding company, global brand, and media platform.