Welcome to the New Midwest Film Festival Website.
Casino Royale
Opening night at Rivers Casino – Entertainment Center | 3000 S. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60018 | Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Badge Pick-Up – 12PM
Doors for VIP – 6PM
Doors for GA – 7PM
Close – 11:45pm
Not valid for any participant of the Illinois Gaming Board Statewide Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program. Must be 21 years of age or older. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).
The Midwest Film Festival, the nation’s premiere showcase dedicated exclusively to Midwestern filmmakers. Thank you for stopping by!
– Board of Directors, Staff & Leadership Team
Be part of something meaningful.
SUPPORT
Donate to the Midwest Film Festival
The Midwest Film Festival is dedicated to elevating the filmmakers, artists, and creative voices shaping the future of Midwest cinema.
Through screenings, educational initiatives, and community experiences, we create opportunities for stories to be discovered, conversations to be sparked, and creative careers to grow.
Your support helps strengthen a thriving ecosystem for independent film and ensures that Midwest stories continue to reach audiences both here and beyond.
TICKETS
July 22, 2026 — Opening Night: Midwest Royale at Rivers Casino The Festival opens with a red carpet premiere event featuring curated screenings, filmmaker appearances and a celebratory kickoff reception.
NEWS
July 23–25, 2026 — Festival Screenings at Ramova Theatre Daily programming will include curated film blocks, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions and networking opportunities highlighting the diversity of Midwest storytellers.