Chris Columbus, left, and Stephen Spielberg are shown at the London premiere of “The Thursday Murder Club.” Columbus, who grew up in Champion and graduated from John F. Kennedy High School, directed “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” which will be shown at the Robins Theatre as part of Ohio Goes to the Movies. Elm Road Drive-In will screen “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,” which was directed by Spielberg, a Cincinnati native. (AP photo)

Several area venues will host free screenings of films with Ohio ties in 2026 as part of Ohio Goes to the Movies.

The film series showcases the state’s many connections to the industry, both in front of and behind the camera as well as a filming location, and it’s one of the signature events for America 250-Ohio, the state’s celebration of the country’s 250th anniversary. 

In the news release announcing the schedule, Gov. Mike DeWine says, “Ohio has played a significant role in the history of American film and continues to attract talent, productions and storytelling that resonate around the world. Ohio Goes to the Movies ensures that residents in every community can participate in the America 250 celebration and rediscover the films that connect us.”

From Feb. 11 to Oct. 10, 2026, more than 250 free movie screenings are planned in all 88 Ohio counties. 

The lone event in Mahoning County also is one of the first — a screening of “The Deer Hunter” at the Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor at 5 p.m. Feb. 20.