Ohio is Reel-y Special
History is often taught through textbooks. It is rarely taught through the flickering light of a film projector. Ohio is changing that narrative in a groundbreaking way for the nation's semiquincentennial. The state is launching an unprecedented cultural initiative called Ohio Goes to the Movies. This statewide celebration honors our deep cinematic roots while bringing communities together. It begins on a historically significant date.
The series kicks off on February 11, 2026. This date marks the birthday of Thomas Alva Edison. The Milan, Ohio native gave the world the technology to capture motion. We are not just a backdrop for Hollywood stories. We are the birthplace of the medium itself.
Governor Mike DeWine and the America 250-Ohio commission have organized over 250 free screenings across all 88 counties. This creates a massive film festival accessible to every resident. The program removes economic barriers by offering these events at no cost. Families can enjoy high-quality entertainment without buying tickets.
Southwest Ohio plays a starring role in this lineup. The region has long served as a favorite location for major motion pictures. Locals will have the chance to see familiar streets on the big screen.
Residents in Hamilton County can head to the RJ Cinema Distillery and Taproom on September 21. They will be showing the Academy Award-winning classic “Rain Man.” This film famously features scenes shot across Greater Cincinnati. It stars legendary actors with deep ties to the industry.
Nostalgia lovers in Butler County should mark their calendars for June 27. The Fitton Center for Creative Arts will screen the cult favorite “Airborne.” This movie captures the essence of 1990s Cincinnati youth culture. It remains a beloved snapshot of the Queen City’s past.
The excitement extends into Warren County as well. Regal Deerfield Town Center will host a screening of “The Bikeriders” on October 3. This recent production showcases the enduring appeal of our region for modern filmmakers.
Clermont County joins the fun on March 1. Cinemark Milford will present the family adventure “Hook.” This screening offers a perfect opportunity for parents to introduce a classic to a new generation.
These events are about more than just entertainment. They drive economic activity to our local venues. A screening at a historic theater or a drive-in encourages foot traffic to nearby restaurants. It supports small businesses in our neighborhoods.
The initiative also highlights the incredible talent hailing from our state. We are the home of icons like Doris Day of Cincinnati. We produced directing powerhouses like the Russo Brothers. Our creative DNA is undeniable.
Ohio Goes to the Movies is a brilliant way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. It connects our past to our present through the universal language of film. You should grab some popcorn. You should find a screening near you. We are about to witness the magic of the movies right in our own backyard.
Check out the full lineup for 2026 for the greater Cincinnati area
| County | Venue | Movie | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton | Kenwood Theatre | Boy, Did I Get a Wrong Number | 2/15/26 |
| Hamilton | Cinemark Western Hills | A.I. Artificial Intelligence | 3/1/26 |
| Hamilton | Cinemark Oakley Station | The Color Purple | 3/1/26 |
| Hamilton | Miami Historical Society (Miamitown) | History in Your Own Backyard | 3/25/26 |
| Hamilton | Mariemont Theatre | Lover Come Back | 4/5/26 |
| Hamilton | Miami Historical Society (Whitewater) | History in Your Own Backyard | 4/22/26 |
| Hamilton | Contemporary Arts Center | The Best Years of Our Lives | 5/15/26 |
| Hamilton | Colerain Park Amphitheater | Little Giants | 7/17/26 |
| Hamilton | Cincinnati Museum Center | Apollo 11: First Steps Edition | 7/18/26 |
| Hamilton | Esquire Theatre | A Raisin in the Sun | 8/14/26 |
| Hamilton | RJ Cinema Distillery and Taproom | Rain Man | 9/21/26 |
| Hamilton | AMC Anderson Towne Center | Jurassic Park | 10/2/26 |
| Butler | Fitton Center for Creative Arts | Airborne | 6/27/26 |
| Butler | AMC West Chester | Saving Private Ryan | 9/25/26 |
| Butler | Oxford Community Arts Center | Robin Hood: Men in Tights | 10/2/26 |
| Butler | AMC CLASSIC Hamilton | The Right Stuff | 10/9/26 |
| Warren | Republic Theatres - Colony Square | The Hunger Games | 4/19/26 |
| Warren | Harmon Museum - Armstrong Conference Center | The Scarlet Letter | 8/7/26 |
| Warren | Regal Deerfield Town Center | The Bikeriders | 10/3/26 |
| Clermont | Cinemark Milford | Hook | 3/1/26 |
| Clermont | Republic Theatres - Pierce Point | The Twisters | 9/13/26 |
| Clinton | Republic Theatres - Wilmington Plaza | The Wizard of Oz | 2/22/26 |
| Clinton | The Murphy Theatre | Abby's List: A Dogumentary | 8/29/26 |
| Brown | Gaslight Theater | Grant | 4/23/26 |