ChiFilmFest Opening Night Block Party
October 11, 2023 • 5:00–10:00pm
Southport from Grace to Waveland (in front of the Music Box Theatre)
The Chicago International Film Festival will kick off Opening Night with an Opening Night Block Party encompassing Southport between Grace and Waveland, home of the Music Box Theatre. Neighbors, community groups, and film fans from across Chicago are invited to enjoy live music, outdoor film screenings, retail kiosks, and local food vendors. Entry to the Block Party is FREE.



Featuring live performances by local bands
ÉSSO • Living Thing • Omar Coleman & West Side Soul • Senya
Short films on the outdoor screen

CineYouth Highlights
Directed by Ryu Sihyun, Andee Williams, Aniya Carey, Antoinette Green, Iyanna Jordan, Shane Dioneda, Adelaide Wilson, Lua Borges, Adora Midderhoff, Jessica Sarmina, Tatiana Mays, Nariah Walker, and Benji Tucker.

City & State Shorts
Directed by Peter Collins Campbell, Dustin Nakao-Haider, and Brian Zahm


Block Party Partners and Sponsors
Bad Johnny’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Kitchen • Bill Rush Photography & Design • Cafe Tola • Camera Ambassador • Chicago Alliance of Film Festivals • Cotacachi Handy Crafts • Dark Matter Coffee • Japanese Cultural Center • Kartemquin Films • Kerwell • Illinois Film Office • Linner Bakery • Lola’s • Lolis Designs • Mixtape Your Life • Nothing Bundt Cakes • Pallay Craft • Game Trailer • Kartemquin Films • Tori Grace Outfitters • The Bernese Builder • Wander From The Known