Easton, Maryland — July 1, 2026 — The Chesapeake Film Festival (CFF) announces that Early Bird Tickets are now available for the 19th Season of the festival, taking place Thursday, October 8 through Saturday, October 10, 2026, in historic downtown Easton, Maryland.

This year’s festival will showcase as many as 50 of the most compelling new environmental, narrative, documentary, and short independent films being produced today. Screenings and special events will take place at three of the Eastern Shore’s most celebrated cultural venues: the historic Ebenezer Theater, Academy Art Museum, and the Talbot County Free Library.

Early Bird Festival Tickets include admission to all festival films — three exciting days at these prestigious venues, as well as access to the festival’s popular VIP Reception, filmmaker events offering audiences the opportunity to connect with filmmakers, artists, community leaders, and fellow film enthusiasts. Tickets can be purchased online at www.chesapeakefilmfestival.com beginning July 1.

“The Chesapeake Film Festival continues to celebrate the power of independent storytelling by bringing extraordinary films and filmmakers to the Eastern Shore,” said Executive Director, Cid Collins Walker. “Our 19th Season reflects the diversity, creativity, and important conversations that independent cinema inspires.”

In addition to the October festival, CFF is proud to announce the 2026 FREE Summer Adventure Movie Series, presented in partnership with the Talbot County Free Library and the Chesapeake Film Festival. This special community series celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America with unforgettable cinematic journeys centered on exploration, courage, imagination, and discovery.

Designed for audiences of all ages, the Summer Adventure Movie Series invites families, friends, and film lovers to enjoy classic adventures in a welcoming community setting. Refreshments will be served at each screening.

The 2026 FREE Summer Adventure Movie Series at the Talbot County Free Library schedule includes:

Jurassic Park – Friday, July 10, 2026 — 2:00 PM
Stars: Sam Neill, Laura Dern, Jeff Goldblum, Richard Attenborough
When scientists preview a billionaire’s dinosaur theme park, a system failure unleashes chaos—and a desperate fight for survival—in Steven Spielberg’s groundbreaking blockbuster.

Raiders of the Lost Ark Friday, July 31, 2026 — 2:00 PM
Stars: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman
Daring archaeologist Indiana Jones races against Nazi forces to find the biblical Ark of the Covenant before it can be weaponized, in a globe-trotting adventure from director Steven Spielberg blending action, humor, and myth.

Stand by Me
Saturday, August 8, 2026 — 2:00 PM
Stars: Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O’Connell
In the summer of 1959, four boys set out to find a missing child, facing danger and self-discovery along the way in this heartfelt coming-of-age story about friendship and growing up.  Based on a novella by Stephen King and directed by Rob Reiner.

National Treasure
Saturday, August 29, 2026 — 2:00 PM
Stars: Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha, Sean Bean, Jon Voight
Historian and treasure hunter Benjamin Franklin Gates follows a centuries-old trail of clues hidden in America’s founding documents—including the United States Declaration of Independence—to uncover a legendary treasure, racing against rivals while deciphering codes and protecting a national secret.  Directed by Jon Turteltaub.

All Summer Adventure Movie Series screenings will take place at the Talbot County Free Library. No reservations are required and refreshments will be served.

For Early Bird Tickets and additional information about the 19th Annual Chesapeake Film Festival, visit www.chesapeakefilmfestival.com.

The Chesapeake Film Festival is dedicated to entertaining, educating, empowering, and inspiring diverse audiences through independent film, conversations, and cultural experiences.

KEY DATES

July 1 Early Bird Tickets to CFF 2026 Available Online Now

July/August FREE Summer Adventure Film Series – Talbot County Free Library

Friday, July 10, 2026 — 2:00 PM Jurassic Park (33rd Anniversary),

Friday, July 31, 2026 — 2:00 PM Raiders of the Lost Ark (45th Anniversary)

Saturday, August 8, 2026 — 2:00 PM Stand by Me (40th Anniversary)

Saturday, August 29, 2026 — 2:00 PM National Treasure (22nd Anniversary)

October 8 – 10   Chesapeake Film Festival, downtown Easton – Ebenezer Theater, Academy Art Museum and Talbot County Free Library

CFF programming is brought to you by our generous sponsors Bluepoint Hospitality, the Shared Earth Foundation, Artistic Insights Fund, The Nature Conservancy, Maryland State Arts Council, Maxine Millar, Talbot Arts, Talbot County Free Library, Shore United Bank, Red Zeppelin Productions, Easton Utilities, Laser Letters and by generous patrons like you.  For further information about becoming a sponsor for the 2026 Chesapeake Film Festival or to become an Intern or Volunteer, please email: artisticdirector@chesapeakefilmfestival.com.

Media Contact: Erin Kline, ekline5@gmail.com
Chesapeake Film Festival, Marketing & Promotions 2026