Cinema Soirée 2026
Saturday, July 18 | 6:00pm
The Geraghty
Soirée Co-Chairs:
Steve Dolinsky & Amy Dordek | Jon & Allie Harris
Join us for Cinema Soirée 2026, the Chicago International Film Festival’s signature fundraising gala and one of the most glamorous nights on Chicago’s cultural calendar. A highlight of the summer season, the Soirée celebrates the power of visual storytelling while supporting the Festival and Cinema/Chicago’s year-round programs that connect audiences and filmmakers across the city.
Each year, the Soirée brings together filmmakers, civic leaders, film lovers, and devoted supporters for an unforgettable evening of celebration and purpose. Guests enjoy exceptional cuisine, curated cocktails, lively entertainment, and special appearances—all in honor of the art of cinema and the vibrant community that brings it to life.
Buy Tickets
Sponsor Benefits
- Seating for one (1) guest (includes cocktails, dinner, evening program, after party, gift bags)
- Seating for 10 guests (includes cocktails, dinner, evening program, after party, gift bag)
- Recognition on invitation, marketing materials, event website, and on-screen acknowledgement
- Seating for 10 guests (includes cocktails, dinner, evening program, after party, gift bag)
- Recognition on invitation, marketing materials, event website, and on-screen acknowledgement
- Sponsorship of a General Film at 62nd Chicago International Film Festival (October 14–25, 2026; includes VIP seats for 10 guests and recognition at a screening).
- Prime seating for 10 guests (includes cocktails, dinner, evening program, after party, premium gift bag)
- Prominent logo recognition on invitation, marketing materials, event website, and on-screen acknowledgement
- Verbal recognition from the stage during the evening program
- Access to VIP pre-reception
- Sponsorship of a Special Presentation Film at 62nd Chicago International Film Festival (October 14–25, 2026; includes VIP seats for 10 guests and recognition at a screening)
- Premium seating for 20 guests (includes cocktails, dinner, evening program, after party, premium gift bag)
- Prominent logo recognition on invitation, marketing materials, event website, and on-screen acknowledgement
- Verbal recognition from the stage during the evening program
- Access to VIP pre-reception
- Seated with a filmmaker/special guest for dinner
- Sponsorship of a Premium Film (Opening or Closing Night) or a Film Program at 62nd Chicago International Film Festival (October 14–25, 2026; includes VIP seats for 10 guests and recognition at a screening)
Your Support Matters
Proceeds from the Cinema Soirée sustain Cinema/Chicago’s year-round education and public programs, including…
Chicago International Film Festival
Now in its 62nd year, the Chicago International Film Festival is North America’s longest-running competitive film festival.
Summer Screenings
This free film series that casts a spotlight on a different country’s national cinema each week all summer.
Community Cinema
Bringing free screenings to under-resourced neighborhoods across Chicago all year long.
CineYouth Festival
Showcasing and encouraging the work of creative youth from around the world, this annual program provides free training for the next generation of filmmakers.
Accessibility
Fostering an inclusive and accessible environment with Open Captions, Audio Descriptions, and Sensory-Friendly Spaces.
Chicago Industry Exchange Lab (CIX:Lab)
Our year-long feature film development lab for emerging Illinois filmmakers.