Free International Film Screenings All Summer 2026

Films from around the world showing for free in Chi City! Cinema/Chicago, the nonprofit behind the glorious Chicago International Film Festival, has kicked off its annual Summer Screenings program yet again.

The programmers state: “In celebration of the 100th anniversary of the founding of Route 66—America’s most iconic highway—this year’s Summer Screenings program will pay homage to the classic “road movie,” in which the journey is the destination. Featuring everything from gripping revenge odysseys and harrowing ocean crossings to introspective cross-country treks and whirlwind railway capers, these films explore what it means to “hit the road” in countries across the globe.

Summer Screenings is Cinema/Chicago’s annual free film series that casts a spotlight on a different country’s national cinema each week all summer.” Source: Cinema/Chicago

At the time of posting, 3 films have screened this year, with a total of 19 slated for viewings at the Chicago Cultural Center’s Cassidy Theater and the Chicago History Museum. Wednesday evening screenings will take place at the Chicago Cultural Center, doors open at 5:45 pm, with the screening starting at 6:30 pm. Saturdays (except July 4 &18) will take place at the Chicago History Museum from 1 pm.

More information can be found via ChicagoFilmFestival.com