April 16-30, 2026
Named one of the coolest film festivals in the world by MovieMaker Magazine, the Milwaukee Film Festival is one of the Midwest’s largest film festivals, and one of Milwaukee’s most-beloved cultural events.
Proud to be known for its world-class hospitality, the Milwaukee Film Festival spotlights bold new voices, acclaimed filmmakers, unique stories, and work made right here in Milwaukee that resonates far beyond the screen.
Join us in April for our 18th annual festival!
Milwaukee Film Members get discounts when logged in!
The Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by Associated Bank, returns April 16 – 30, 2026! As one of the largest film festivals in the Midwest, MFF is proud to present more than 200 films in our two historic theaters over 15 magical days. For all questions related to submissions, please use the FilmFreeway link below or email entry@mkefilm.org.
— Milwaukee Film Audience MemberIt’s a great opportunity to see movies that you may not otherwise have access to… some of my favorite movies of the last few years are films I saw at the Milwaukee Film Festival!
The 2026 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by Associated Bank, runs April 16-30 at the Downer and Oriental Theatres on Milwaukee’s East Side.
You’re in the right place! Advance ticket packages and all-access passes are now available. Individual tickets will be available online starting April 6 for Members, April 8 for everyone else, and in-person at the Oriental Theatre on April 10.
We show a wide range of films during the Milwaukee Film Festival—fiction, documentary, features, and shorts—in all genres, for all ages, and from all locations. (With a special spotlight celebrating our own Milwaukee filmmaking community!) There’s truly something for everyone!
Yes! One of the things that makes a film festival special is the extra stuff surrounding the films. Check back closer to festival time for a complete list of special festival events, including panel discussions, parties, mixers, and guests in attendance.
Yes! Submissions are now open on FilmFreeway, but don’t delay—they close for everyone (no exceptions) on January 30, 2026! Get the 411 on submission and eligibility on FilmFreeway.
Not all films have MPAA ratings. Some movies might contain material unsuitable for children, so please use discretion when selecting films for youths. Age-appropriate films are available with age recommendations in our Rated K: For Kids program.
While we sometimes provide content warnings, we encourage viewers with specific sensitivities to check websites like Does the Dog Die? in advance to see if a film might be difficult for them to view.
Associated Bank is the official bank of Milwaukee Film. Learn more here
While you tap your fingers with anticipation for 2026, relive the 2025 fest!
— 2025 Milwaukee Film Festival AttendeeMilwaukee Film is a community of film lovers with shared values of creativity, community, social justice, acceptance, and love… it inspires me through film and is a place where I belong.
