COLUMBUS, Ohio (January 28, 2026) — Ohio Goes to the Movies, part of the America 250-Ohio Signature Event, is gearing up for a year of cinematic celebration with its free February film screenings. Kicking off on February 11, 2026, the series will offer a variety of film screenings statewide, each paired with unique activities celebrating Ohio’s contributions to film history. From celebrity appearances to interactive discussions, these events will spotlight Ohio’s iconic ties to the world of cinema.
Program director Molly Kreuzman shared her enthusiasm about the series: “Ohio Goes to the Movies will entertain audiences of all ages, offering an exciting opportunity for families, friends, and solo travelers to experience Ohio’s vibrant culture and rich film history. From bustling cities to charming small towns, our events provide an affordable way to enjoy the magic of movies while discovering local history and attractions.”
February 2026 Screening Highlights
The first Ohio Goes to the Movies event will be held on February 11, coinciding with Thomas Edison’s birthday. Hosted by the Edison Birthplace Association at Milan Town Hall, “A Night at the Movies with Mr. Edison” will showcase a selection of early Edison films, including Jack & The Beanstalk (1902), Frankenstein (1910), and Alice in Wonderland (1910). The event will feature an Edison impersonator as emcee, guiding attendees through the history of Edison’s impact on film. A post-screening discussion will offer an opportunity for guests to engage with the legacy of the inventor.
The following day, February 12, will be a major day of screenings across Ohio, with multiple locations celebrating films featuring Ohio connections:
- Columbus: The Gateway Film Center will screen The Shawshank Redemption, filmed in Ohio and featuring actor Clancy Brown, a native of Urbana.
- North Olmsted: Phoenix Theatres at Great Northern Mall will present Close Encounters of the Third Kind (70mm), directed by Steven Spielberg, a Cincinnati native, and starring Teri Garr of Lakewood.
Other highlights include:
- Wooster: The Lyric Theater will screen Raising Arizona, followed by a Q&A with filmmaker Christopher Buchanan and storyboard artist J. Todd Anderson, both with Ohio connections.
- Bryan: The Bryan Theatre will host a screening of The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio, a film adapted from the novel by Defiance native Terry Ryan. The event will include a presentation on the history of movie theaters in Williams County, along with student-created documentary footage.
- Steubenville: The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County will screen Guarding Tess with Ohio actors Austin Pendleton and David Graf on Presidents Day, February 15.
Ohio’s Cinematic History Featured Throughout February
As the month continues, screenings will showcase Ohio’s influence on the film industry:
- Cincinnati (Feb. 15): The Kenwood Theatre will celebrate Ohio actress Phyllis Diller with a red-carpet premiere of Boy, Did I Get a Wrong Number.
- Columbus (Feb. 19): The Wexner Center for the Arts, in collaboration with Thurber House, will screen films adapted from the works of Ohio-born humorist James Thurber, including The Male Animal and the short film A Unicorn in the Garden.
- Youngstown (Feb. 20): Youngstown State University will host a screening of The Deer Hunter, which features scenes filmed in the region, followed by a panel discussion about the area’s industrial culture.
Additional screenings will take place in locations such as Hudson, Springfield, Wilmington, and Aurora, showcasing films like The Big Short, La La Land, The Wizard of Oz, and Unstoppable. On February 26, the Dayton Metro Library will screen Beloved, adapted from the novel by Lorain’s Toni Morrison, accompanied by a discussion panel.
A Yearlong Celebration of Ohio’s Film Legacy
Ohio Goes to the Movies is part of the broader America 250-Ohio initiative, celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary. Over the course of the year, more than 250 free movie events will be held in all 88 counties, highlighting Ohio’s prominent role in shaping American cinema.
Kreuzman emphasized the initiative’s scope, saying, “This is more than just a series of screenings — it’s a chance to explore Ohio’s film legacy and the stars, directors, and films that have shaped American culture.”
The full calendar of events, including additional details on specific screenings and the Ohio connections of each film, is available on the official Ohio Goes to the Movies website: OhioGoesToTheMovies.org. Although all events are free, venues will issue tickets to manage attendance and ensure a smooth experience.
About Ohio Goes to the Movies
Ohio Goes to the Movies is a Signature Event of America 250-Ohio, part of the official state commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States. This initiative celebrates Ohio’s pivotal role in American cinema, featuring films filmed in the state or starring Ohio-born talent. The event series, which runs through October 2026, offers free screenings across Ohio, making it an exciting opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience the state’s rich cinematic history.
