Windy City Shorts is an open mic night for short movies made in Chicago - you make it, we show it, everyone hangs out, maybe you meet your next actor/writer/DP/soundperson/gaffer/person who wants to cook for a large group of people, etc, we do it again in a few months and watch the results of those collaborations – Huzzah!

Two caveats are: We show 90 minutes worth of movies total, and the submission process is on a first come first serve basis, so don't wait until the deadline to submit, because we might already be full by then! Also, submitting is free, but filmmakers still need to purchase a ticket for the event (tickets are $12).

Our next event will be Thursday, September 10th , at the Lincoln Lodge in Chicago at 7pm, hopefully we'll see ya there!

Awards & Prizes

This is an opportunity for local moviemakers to show their work, there are no judges and there are no winners. There might be a random drawing or two throughout the event though to spice things up.

Rules & Terms

All submissions must be under 10 minutes - the shorter the movies the more we can screen!

You must attend in person for us to actually screen your movie! If you don't check in with us upon arrival we will not show it!
5 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Jaden Duenas

    Great audience/atmosphere and overall organizing, can't wait to return!

    December 2025
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  • Ciat Conlin

    A wonderful festival with friendly organizers and a great crowd. We look forward to the next one!

    May 2025
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  • Chris Byrne

    I had really great time screening my film here! Great vibes and great people!

    January 2025
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  • Carlos Lerma

    A MUST ATTEND IN PERSON EVENT! Audience reactions are golden and the networking opportunities are incredible. I had a blast.

    January 2025
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  • Sarah Falkiner

    Fun and low key event-a great space to share your work with an audience!

    May 2024
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