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oct 2 - 4, 2026

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Enter the Nightmare

Join us for a spine-chilling celebration of horror cinema at the Chicago Horror Film Festival. Experience a full weekend of terrifying films, engaging panels, and exclusive opportunities to connect with filmmakers and horror fans from around the world.

CHFF brings the best in indie horror to the big screen — where nightmares truly come to life.

Be part of horror history at the 28th Annual Chicago Horror Film Festival — proudly ranked among the Top 3 Horror Film Festivals in the World.

NEW VENUE

Landmark Century Centre Cinema

2828 North Clark Street. Chicago, IL 60657 (w/ Parking Garage)

About

The 28th edition of the CHICAGO HORROR FILM FESTIVAL is set to illuminate the world of independent horror cinema.

OCT 2-4, 2026

This extraordinary event, born from the passion of dedicated horror creators and enthusiasts, promises THREE days of captivating programming featuring a curated selection of both local and touring short films.

Get ready to experience the pinnacle of indie horror as we present only the most exceptional and spine-tingling works on not one, not two, but three screens!

Film Categories

TROPHY AWARDS "The SKULL"
Best Horror Feature
Best Horror Short
Best Horror Chicago/IL
Best Horror 1st Time Director
Best Horror Director
Best Horror Actor & Actress

Best Young Performer

Best Horror Director - Chicago/IL
Best Horror Actor & Actress - Chicago/IL

CERTIFICATE AWARDS
Best Horror International (Short & Feature)
Best Horror Cinematography
Best Horror Trailer (must have download link)
Best Horror Comedy
Best Horror Cartoon/Animation/Puppet
Best LGBTQ+ Horror

Best Final Girl
Best Sci-Fi/Fantasy Horror*
Best Midnight/Grindhouse/WTF
Best Horror Fan-Film
Best Horror Film Poster
Best Screenplay (1st,2nd & 3rd place)
Fest Directors Choice Award

BECOME A MEMEBER

Filmmaker - producerS - Actors - mediA - vip weekend PassholderS onlY

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BIG NEWS FROM THE CHICAGO HORROR FILM FESTIVAL

Please welcome Ashley Hefner as our NEW Co-Director!

Ashley brings the professionalism, experience, and creative vision we’ve been looking for as we continue to grow bigger than ever before.

Actress in 18 films
Cinematographer on 22 films
Director of 8 films
Writer of 2 screenplays

Ashley’s deep roots in independent horror filmmaking and production make her an incredible addition to the team, and we’re excited for what’s ahead. From behind the camera to on-screen performances, she understands every side of filmmaking — and that passion is exactly what we want helping shape the future of our events and productions.

The future of horror is looking VERY bright.

Welcome to the family, Ash!

LGBTQ+ Horror Film Block is BACK!!!

Get ready for one of the wildest late-night blocks of the 28th Annual Chicago Horror Film Festival!

Join us Saturday, October 3 at 10 PM for our legendary LGBTQ+ Horror Film Block, hosted by Chicago’s very own Germ T. Ripper!

This special showcase celebrates LGBTQ+ voices in independent horror with a lineup of bold, bloody, twisted, and unapologetically original films from emerging and established filmmakers.

Come early, grab some popcorn or a drink, meet fellow horror fans and filmmakers, and then settle in for a late-night celebration of queer horror on a REAL movie theater screen.

OUR LAST EVENT!

FILMS

more coming soon

SponsorshiP

BECOME A SPONSOR OF THE CHICAGO HORROR FILM FESTIVAL!

Join us for the 25th Annual Chicago Horror Film Festival, where the best of indie horror comes to life! Since taking over the festival in 2023, we’ve seen an astounding 39,000% increase in ticket sales, proving the growing popularity and excitement surrounding this event. With a massive audience of horror enthusiasts, filmmakers, and industry professionals, the CHFF offers an exclusive opportunity to showcase your brand to a dedicated and engaged community.

As a sponsor, you'll get: