Film Fair and Expo
Introducing Midwest Royale
The Midwest Film Festival opening of the 2026 season, will officially launch on May 31 with the Midwest Film Fair and Best of the Midwest Winners Showcase at the Chicago Cultural Center. Presented in partnership with DCASE and made possible by the Chicago Film Office, the Film Fair will feature screenings of 2025 award-winning films, along with the announcement of the 2026 Best of the Midwest Awards (BMA) nominees.
Hosted in GAR Hall, the Film Fair Expo is an immersive environment transforming the space into an interactive “set” representing key filmmaking departments. Think Adult show and tell day featuring the key makers in the Midwest Community. Participants include university film programs, equipment vendors, set designers, wardrobe, hair and makeup artists, actors, writers, post-production teams, craft services, and sustainability initiatives. Each department offers hands-on engagement and insight into their craft, reflecting a real-world film set ecosystem.
You’ll also have the opportunity to sit in on “How we Made it sessions” with some of the top winners from the 2025 BMA’s!
PROGRAM SCHEDULE OVERVIEW
Please RSVP for each portion you plan to attend individually.
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Workforce Workshop Prepping Your Project for Post Presented by Journeywork Entertainment (Claudia Cassidy Theater) Limited capacity – RSVP required
11:00 AM – 2:45 PM – MFF Expo (GAR Hall)
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM – 2025 BMA Winners Showcase Screening & Talkback (Claudia Cassidy Theater)
About the Chicago Cultural Center
Completed in 1897 as Chicago’s first central library, the building was established as the Chicago Cultural Center, the nation's first and most comprehensive free municipal cultural venue, in 1991. One of the most visited attractions in Chicago, the stunning landmark building is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, as well as free art exhibitions, performances, tours, lectures, family activities, music, and more – presented by the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and many others. Learn about the latest events and news at ChicagoCulturalCenter.org and by following the Chicago Cultural Center on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.