From August 14–23, XL Fest is turning Chicago into the cultural capital of the Midwest. Created by actor-turned-producer Troy Pryor and powered by Creative Cypher, XL Fest is more than a film festival — it’s a movement. For 10 days, the city becomes a playground for creators, dealmakers, and culture lovers.
This year’s theme, Legacy in Motion, honors the past while spotlighting what’s next in media, storytelling, and innovation. Whether you’re a film fanatic, rising creative, or just chasing the energy, XL Fest delivers.
Whether you’re a cinephile, content creator, entrepreneur, or just down for a dope experience, XL Fest has something for you.
Expect:
🎥 Screenings of boundary-pushing indie films and shorts
🎤 Live music, immersive art, and culinary moments
🎙️ Thought-provoking panels with creators and industry pros
🤝 Networking events and marketplace vibes
This year’s theme — Legacy in Motion — honors the journey of BIPOC creatives while building space for the next wave.
Tickets are available now via Eventnoire, with All-Access Passports unlocking every panel, performance, and premiere. The festival kicks off with a film showcase and rolls through Chicago with key events at the David Rubenstein Forum and other cultural hotspots.
Pull up, plug in, and be part of the movement. Afterparties by WhatsTheWord.TV? You already know. This isn’t just a festival — it’s Chicago’s cultural comeback.
See it first. Stream it later. Only at XL Fest.
Follow @xlfilmfestival @creativecypher for the full schedule and surprises.🎟️ Grab your pass now: https://events.eventnoire.com/e/xl-fest-25/tickets
🔗 Learn more: creativecypher.org/xl-fest
