Chicago is getting a new weekend dedicated to independent movies, and Southport Avenue’s historic Music Box Theatre will be part of it.
The first Chicago Cinema Weekend is scheduled for March 19–21, 2027, with screenings and special programming at independent movie theaters across the city. Organized by the Chicago Film Office and ChicagoScreens.org, the event will celebrate local filmmakers, art-house cinemas and the experience of watching a movie together on the big screen.
The Music Box at 3733 N. Southport Avenue is among the first confirmed venues, alongside Facets Film Forum, the Gene Siskel Film Center and the Claudia Cassidy Theater at the Chicago Cultural Center.
Programming is expected to include independent releases, Chicago-made classics, retrospective screenings and selections from recent film festivals. The Chicago International Film Festival, Reeling: The Chicago LGBTQ+ International Film Festival and One Earth Film Festival will also present festival favorites. Organizers say some screenings will be free, and special events and giveaways are planned.
The timing reflects renewed interest in Chicago’s independent theaters. According to the Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals, member venues reported ticket sales growth ranging from 45% to 95% between 2023 and 2025. Those figures describe increases at participating theaters, not ticket sales across the entire city.
For Southport, the Music Box is a natural fit. Open since 1929, the neighborhood landmark is known for independent films, cult classics and special screenings. It has also continued investing in its future, including renovations and the addition of a third screening space in 2026.
The full film lineup, showtimes and ticket information have not yet been announced. Additional venues are expected to join, with more programming details anticipated in early 2027.
For updates, visit ChicagoScreens.org or the Music Box Theatre website.