September 20

Originally planned for 1939 but postponed by World War II, the first Cannes Film Festival finally opened on the French Riviera on September 20, 1946. Cinema luminaries and emerging talents gathered at the newly constructed Palais des Festivals for screenings of films from fifteen countries. The jury awarded the festival’s Grand Prix to the most outstanding works, highlighting post-war creativity across European cinema. The event symbolized a renewal of international cultural exchange and artistic collaboration after years of conflict. Screenings were followed by gala receptions and industry gatherings, laying the groundwork for Cannes' enduring prestige. Today, the festival remains a premier showcase for innovation and excellence in filmmaking.

Finnish writer and artist Tove Jansson, in collaboration with her brother Lars, brought the enchanting world of the Moomins to an international audience on September 20, 1954. Their comic strip, published in the London Evening News, featured a family of gentle, hippopotamus-like creatures living in idyllic Moominvalley. The charming stories combined whimsical fantasy, humor, and thoughtful reflections on life, appealing to readers of all ages. This global launch expanded the Moomins’ reach beyond Scandinavia, leading to translations, merchandise, and animated adaptations. The debut underscored the universal appeal of Jansson’s imaginative storytelling. Today, the Moomins remain enduring icons of mid-century European culture and children’s literature.