Three Days of Independent Film, Inspiring Stories, Environmental Cinema, Maryland Perspectives, and Celebrations of Art and Culture.
The Chesapeake Film Festival (CFF) is pleased to announce highlights of its 19th Season, taking place October 8–10, 2026, throughout historic Easton, Maryland. The festival celebrates the power of stories, voices, and action, bringing audiences together through extraordinary films, diverse voices, and stories that inspire connection, conversation, and change.
The three-day festival will present an exciting selection of 47 independent narrative and documentary films from filmmakers near and far, with special programming highlighting the environment, Maryland stories, the arts, and extraordinary individuals whose lives and work inspire audiences.
Explore highlights from all three days below.
For the full slate of festival films and to secure your Early Bird and VIP tickets, visit:
https://chesapeakefilmfest.ticketspice.com/chesapeake-film-festival-2026
Thursday, October 8 | 5:00 PM
Ebenezer Theater | 17 S. Washington Street, Easton
Opening Film: Dream, Touch, Believe — Maryland Premiere
The Festival opens with the inspiring story of Native American sculptor Michael Naranjo, who lost his eyesight as a young Vietnam War soldier. Despite his blindness, Naranjo became an internationally acclaimed artist whose sculptures are displayed in museums, the White House, the Vatican, and private collections worldwide.
Both the director and subject of the film, Michael Naranjo, will be present for the Q&A following this presentation.
Documentary Feature | 85 min. | USA
Directed by: Jenna Naranjo Winters
Following the Opening Film, there will be a VIP Reception at the historic Ebenezer Theater for all VIP Passholders.
VIP Tickets are available at:
https://chesapeakefilmfest.ticketspice.com/chesapeake-film-festival-2026
Friday, October 9 | Ebenezer Theater | 17 S. Washington Street, Easton
Narrative Feature — Comedy Spotlight
Film: Show Business — Maryland Premiere
This American comedy follows a screenwriter who moves from New York City to Los Angeles with his fiancée and quickly discovers that balancing a career in show business and a relationship is easier said than done.
A Q&A with the director will follow the screening.
Narrative Feature | 84 min. | USA
Directed by: Alexander Tovar
Environmental Night — Voices for the Wild
Film: Frozen Frames: Murphy’s Yellowstone — Maryland Premiere
Photographer Tom Murphy ventures deep into Yellowstone’s winter wilderness to document wildlife and advocate for the preservation of the Park’s wild places.
Environmental Short | 27 min. | USA
Directed by: Allison Argo
Film: Lifeblood: Chesapeake River Stories
This timely film explores the waterways that shape the Chesapeake Bay and the communities of people who live, work, and play throughout its watershed.
A Q&A with the director, Sarah Sampson, will follow the film.
Spotlight on Maryland | Environmental Feature | 59 min. | USA
Directed by: Sarah Sampson
Spotlight on Maryland
Friday, October 9 | Talbot County Free Library | 100 W. Dover Street, Easton
Film: Heartbeat Behind the Badge
This powerful documentary follows law enforcement officers, retirees, and surviving family members as they participate in a 300-mile bicycle journey during National Police Week to honor those who have died in the line of duty.
Documentary Feature | 95 min. | USA
Directed by: Vickie Warehime
Saturday, October 10 | Ebenezer Theater | 17 S. Washington Street, Easton
Family Films – Big Dreams and Adventures
Film: Couture to the Max
At just 9 years old, fashion prodigy Max Alexander fearlessly fuses his boundless imagination with an unwavering commitment to sustainability, inspiring us to dream boldly and act responsibly.
Documentary Short | 35 min | USA
Directed by: Dori Bernstein
Living Legends
Saturday, October 10 | Academy Art Museum | 106 South Street, Easton
Film: Lasting Impressions
This engaging portrait of renowned printmaker Dan Welden explores his creative journey and the enduring importance of art. Featuring insights from contemporary artists including Eric Fischl and Kiki Smith, this film delves into the legacy of a true master.
A Q&A with artist Dan Welden will follow the screening.
Documentary Feature | 59 min. | USA
Directed by: Carl Welden
The Chesapeake Film Festival’s 19th Season
The Chesapeake Film Festival’s 19th Season continues the organization’s tradition of bringing exceptional independent cinema, filmmakers, and meaningful conversations to the Eastern Shore. Through compelling stories and diverse perspectives, the Festival seeks to entertain, educate, empower, and inspire audiences.
Early Bird and VIP Tickets, additional films, trailers, special guests, events, and complete screening information is available by visiting:
www.chesapeakefilmfestival.com
Prior to the Festival, enjoy the Free Summer Adventure Film Series, hosted at the Talbot County Free Library in August.
Key Dates
August–September: Early Bird and VIP Tickets to CFF 2026 Available Online
August FREE Summer Adventure Film Series – Talbot County Free Library:
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, 2026: Chesapeake Film Festival
Locations: Ebenezer Theater, Academy Art Museum, and Talbot County Free Library
About the Chesapeake Film Festival
Founded in 2008, the Chesapeake Film Festival celebrates the power of independent film to entertain, educate, empower, and inspire diverse audiences. The Festival presents compelling films and engaging conversations while highlighting stories that explore the environment, women’s achievements, social justice, student filmmaking, and the many experiences that connect us as a community and as a world.
CFF programming is brought to you by our generous sponsors: Bluepoint Hospitality, The Shared Earth Foundation, Maryland State Arts Council, The Nature Conservancy, Talbot Arts, Talbot County Free Library, Shore United Bank, Red Zeppelin Productions, Easton Utilities, Laser Letters, Maxine Millar, and other generous patrons.
For more information about sponsorships, internships, or volunteering opportunities for the 2026 Chesapeake Film Festival, please contact: artisticdirector@chesapeakefilmfestival.com.