The Los Angeles Animation Festival – LAAF – kickstarted their weekend with a party, raffle prizes, the voice of Spongebob’s rocking 13-piece band, and the “cream” of the LA indie animation studios.

With a full slate of panels and screenings this weekend, the party set the tone for an intimate festival, nestled in North Hollywood at the Mayflower Club. Animators and voice actors and studio producers and animation fans mingled through the evening, grabbing cool swag, and taking turns on the red carpet. The evening also honored special guest, Chris Prynoski, and a sneak peek featuring the women of Titmouse, part of a work-in-progress focusing on women in animation. And it all culminated with the ’50s-sock hop-reminiscent jams of Tom Kenny (the voice of Spongebob) and the Hi-Seas:

The rest of the weekend promises to be a fun glimpse into the indie animation side of LA. Events include competition screenings, behind the scenes panels, animation evolution panels, a screening and panel of Isle of Dogs, and the LAAF awards party Sunday night. Find out more on the LAAF events site. Tickets are still available for some panels and events.