The Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois is proud to present the Chicago Kurdish Film Festival, a two-day celebration dedicated to Kurdish culture, heritage, and storytelling through the art of cinema. This landmark event aims to introduce audiences to the depth, richness, and resilience of Kurdish identity.
The festival will feature a thoughtfully curated selection of narrative and documentary films—both features and shorts—showcasing the voices of Kurdish filmmakers from Kurdistan and across the diaspora. This year’s theme highlights Kurdish history, struggle, traditions, and contemporary experiences, offering viewers an intimate look into the lived realities of Kurdish communities.
More than a film showcase, this festival is a cultural expression and a reflection of the Kurdish spirit. Through powerful personal narratives and cinematic artistry, audiences will encounter stories that embody resistance, preserve memory, and celebrate the enduring strength of Kurdistan.
November 7, 2026 – The Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois
4217 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
November 8, 2026 – Loyola University, Damen Cinema 6511 N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL 60626
Join us for the Chicago Kurdish Film Festival, hosted this year at Loyola University’s Damen Cinema and the Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois! Experience a diverse selection of captivating films that celebrate Kurdish culture and stories.
Below is the screening schedule:
Saturday, November 7, 2026
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Kurdish Cultural Center of Illinois
4217 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
Ticket price: $25
Networking & Reception: 3:00 pm
Kurdish Cultural Bazaar
Light food and beverages
Welcome & Opening Remarks: 4:00 pm – 4:15 pm
Greeting and Welcome: Bahadin Kerborani
Opening Remarks: Dalal Hassane
Panel Discussion: 4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
The Contemporary Art and Literature Practices of a Stateless Nation
Individual presentations: Sener Ozmen and Aryan Omar Hassan
Moderated Q&A and book signing
Film Screenings: 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
• Limo Knew Everything (21 minutes)
• Tea for Three (23 minutes)
• Rojin’s Dream (34 minutes)
• The Land of Buried Women (16 minutes)
Networking: 8:00 pm
Sunday, November 8, 2026
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Loyola University Damen Cinema
6511 N. Sheridan Rd., Chicago, IL 60626
12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
• The Dead End (9 minutes)
• Son (17 minutes)
• Who Am I? (66 minutes)
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
[Networking Break]
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
• File No. 1 (18 minutes)
• 7:30 (18 minutes)
• Night and Fog in Kurdistan (85 minutes)
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm
[Networking Break]
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
• Triangle (15 minutes)
• Footprints of Ants (17 minutes)
• In the Shade of the Poplar Tree (64 minutes)
6:30 pm – 7:00 pm
[Networking Break]
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
• The Last Braid (23 minutes)
• Home Made (15 minutes)
• Zarand (13 minutes)
• Before the Night (62 minutes)
