Monday, January 26, 2026
Dear Ebertfest Family,
Sometimes the audience doesn’t just respond—they decide!
After 26 years of hosting Ebertfest in conjunction with Roger’s beloved Alma Mater, the College of Media at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, we had to announce the end. The University was the perfect partner, but they, like many other institutions across the country, had to make changes. When we announced the end of Ebertfest you responded by the hundreds! So Ebertfest Director Nate Kohn and I surveyed the level of interest in one last festival at the Virginia Theater. The answer came back loud and clear. Ninety-seven percent said yes, let’s bring it back one more time!
Ebertfest: The Last Dance is returning for one final, unforgettable year. Join us April 17–18, 2026, in Champaign, Illinois, at the historic Virginia Theatre for two full days of cinema, conversation, and community. This final edition will feature eight exceptional films, special guests, and the signature Q&As that turn screenings into shared experiences. It is everything you’ve loved about Ebertfest and we are hoping to cap it off with a Farewell Brunch on the morning of Sunday, April 19, 2026.
Tickets will go on sale at the end of January, along with hotel booking links from our festival partners. You will be able to find all this information and more on Ebertfest.com which will go live again the week of January 26, 2026. We expect strong demand for this final celebration in Champaign, so don’t wait, grab your tickets early. This is more than a festival. It’s a reunion. A celebration. A farewell done right. Bring your friends and fellow film lovers. Reconnect with the people who made your past Ebertfest memories so special.
Calling all sponsors: This year’s Ebertfest marks the end of an era—and the kind of cultural moment people remember forever. To explore sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at 312-409-8745 or sonia@ebertdigital.com. Let’s make history together—one last time.
With humble gratitude and appreciation to Roger, the University, the towns of Champaign and Urbana, all of our out-of-town Guests who have graced our stages, and all of the many, many friends and relations we have made over the years!
Chaz Ebert and Nate Kohn