Tickets and VIP passes on sale NOW for the 2025 Cinema Femme Short Film Festival in Chicago from July 17 - 21!
We are thrilled to celebrate the 7th edition of the Cinema Femme Short Film Festival this year — in person from July 17-21st . This one-of-a-kind festival is dedicated to showcasing the work and uplifting the voices and careers of female, trans, and non-binary filmmakers. Between 5 shorts programs, 4 panels and several parties and networking events, this year’s festival will be a hub of filmmakers, film lovers, and members of our community. This year’s festival will be back at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago — we hope to see you there!
Filmmakers can submit their films through our online portal. Attendees can easily register to enjoy a diverse selection of films.
Join us in-person in Chicago from July 17 - 21, or virtually from July 22 - 29.
Submissions for our 2025 festival are now closed. Please subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on social media for updates on our 2026 festival.
Partner with us as a sponsor to make the festival possible.
Discover New Voices See short films selected from all over the world.
Insightful Panel Discussions Gain insights from industry experts and filmmakers.
Networking Opportunities for All Meet fellow filmmakers and enthusiasts.
Our Film Festival champions the voices of female filmmakers, providing a platform for their stories. Join us in fostering creativity and diversity in the film industry.
To elevate and showcase emerging women, trans, and nonbinary filmmakers.
Each year, we award a mentorship to four emerging filmmakers.
Find answers to your questions about our Film Festival, including submissions, tickets, and volunteering.
The 2025 in-person edition will be held at the Music Box Theatre in Chicago from July 17 – 21. We will also be showcasing the short film programs at our Virtual Edition online from July 22 – 29. Please check our festival page for schedule and to buy tickets.
Tickets to our festival programs are $15 for both in-person and virtual. Panels are free, and our 2025 Film Girlz brunch and Closing Night event are $25. VIP Passes allow access to all events, priority entry and discounts on merch. Please check our festival page for more details.
Our in-person festival is proudly held at the Music Box Theatre, a historic and independent cinema in Chicago, IL. Our programs will be held in both the theatres and lounge, as indicated on your ticket. The address is 3733 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Volunteering is a great way to get involved! Email our team at filmfest@cinemafemme.com. We welcome help in various areas, from event setup to guest services.
Our festival is open to everyone! Whether you’re a film enthusiast, industry professional, or just curious, we welcome all attendees. Join us to celebrate diverse storytelling.
Submissions for the 2025 festival are now closed. Please sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for updates on 2026 submissions, and see our Film Freeway page for guidelines.
The easiest way is to become a member of Cinema Femme! Learn more here. We also seek sponsors for our festival and mentorship program, advertisers for our magazine. Please see Support Us for more information.
We’re here to help!
Cinema Femme was such a rewarding and powerful festival to attend. I am so grateful for all the wonderful filmmakers it connected me to, and I left extremely inspired!
Giovanna Molina
We were so honored that our short film 72 played this terrific festival. The communication was great and the film was promoted beautifully by the staff. Being able to be on a panel with other filmmakers was wonderful.
The Film 72
One of my favorite festivals because of Rebecca’s spirit and everyone involved. So full of heart, and the films they screen are all so versatile and thoughtful. Can’t suggest it enough!
Jessica Barr
2025
2025 Film Festival Trailer
2024
Highlights from festivals past and the milestones that shaped Cinema Femme.
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