The festival kicks off July 22 at Rivers Casino Des Plaines with a red carpet event featuring Chicago Fire actor Joe Miñoso. Over the following days, the programming shifts to the Ramova Theatre, where organizers have curated thematic days focusing on social justice, emerging directorial talent, and commercial media. Highlights include a 60th-anniversary retrospective of Kartemquin Films and a showcase of ten rising filmmakers during the '10x10 Voices on the Rise' presentation.

Executive Director NK Gutierrez described the shift as a necessary evolution to connect regional storytellers with global opportunities. The festival concludes July 26 at CineCity Studios with the Best of the Midwest Awards, an annual gala intended to sustain the organization's year-round mission. Tickets and full program details are currently available through the festival's official website.