The Best of the Midwest Awards is the marquee event of the Midwest Film Festival, a dazzling night where the spotlight shines on the region’s most brilliant storytellers. This is more than an awards show; it’s a high-energy celebration of Midwestern filmmaking at its finest and a tribute to our 20th Anniversary!

Join us for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, connection, and pure creative magic. Reunite with old friends, spark new collaborations, and toast to the bold voices shaping the future of film.

So dust off your cocktail attire, pack those business cards, and bring your best dance moves. This night is all about honoring the heart of Midwest cinema in style!

💌💌💌💌MFF MUTAL AID INTIATIVE💌💌💌💌

Action is the Antidote

When the world feels heavy, we don’t freeze—we move.

This year, as Chicago’s immigrant-owned businesses face the ripple effects of neighbors being detained and community fear, we’re turning our biggest celebration of the year into a moment of action.

For the 20th Annual Best of The Midwest Awards we have launched the MFF Mutual Aid Initiative—a commitment to purchase all food and beverages from small businesses directly impacted by these enforcement actions.

Because if you can’t feed a million, feed one. -Mother Theresa

Together, we can feed dozens.
Together, we can keep art, culture, and kitchens open.
Together, we can turn despair into movement.

🎬 Join us in action.
🎟️ Get your ticket or become a sponsor NOW

Evening Schedule

6:00 PM — VIP Reception
An intimate welcome for our honored guests. We'll sip, mingle, and settle into the rhythm of the evening.

7:00 PM — Doors Open for General Admission
Familiar faces and new friends gather to celebrate another incredible year of Midwest storytelling.

7:30 PM — The Best of the Midwest Awards + Fundraiser
Our 20th annual celebration begins. Join us as we honor the artists, creators, and collaborators who define the spirit of Midwestern filmmaking—and raise funds to keep that spirit alive.

10 PM — The Emerald Lounge Opens*
Step into a one-night-only experience. The Emerald Lounge transforms CineCity into a velvet-lit after-hours escape—complete with music, movement, and a few unforgettable surprises.

11:00 PM — Last Call
Raise one final glass to the night, to the work, and to each other.

11:15 PM — Doors Close
The evening fades, but the energy—and the impact—carry on!

*The Emerald Lounge Experience - *New This Year*
Location: Cinecity
Join us for this exclusive after party experience for all attendees! Don't miss out on the one-night only, pop-up nightclub put on by the Midwest Film Fest - a time you don't want to miss! Can't make it to the Award portion of the night? Get your ticket to the clurb - purchase the Emerald Lounge ticket type before capacity's at the max!

Sponsors

Actors Federal Credit Union

Journeywork Entertainment

Mezcla Media Collective

Noisefloor

Optimus

Periscope Post & Audio

Purple Photo GroupSound Investment

Windy City Event Rentals

20th Anniversary Best of the Midwest Awards Gala & Fundraiser

A night to honor the finest in regional cinema and fuel the future of Midwest filmmaking.