Festival Events
Festival Awards Reception
Join us at 11 Eleven for our first-ever Awards Reception! Enjoy a glass of wine as we close out the 2026 festival and celebrate Benson’s favorite films.
free and open to the public
Saturday Night at the Syd
Head to the Syd for the Saturday night after-party! DJ Grazy will be spinning. Tip your bartender.
$5 / free with All-Access Pass (21+)
Red Carpet Happy Hour Reception
Live music is BACK at the Benson Film Festival! Frankie Chiaro takes over the stage for a show you don’t want to miss. Check out the special cocktail menu and local beer offerings in the lobby and enjoy a live art session by Candi Jay. Don’t forget to snap a photo with Party Booth Omaha, check out the merch table, and grab some free popcorn!
free and open to the public
Saturday Morning Cartoons
Head to the Benson Theatre lobby to load up on free coffee and pastries courtesy of Hardy Coffee. Plus, enjoy a free cereal bar and experience a live art session by Angela Behrens! Get cozy in the theatre while you watch some vintage Saturday Morning Cartoons and let the nostalgia take over.
Stick around for our Animated Film Block, featuring 6 films from local, national, and international filmmakers.
All-Access Pass / Saturday Day Pass
Pinball & Patio Party
Following the film screenings, head over to our Pinball & Patio Party! Grab your quarters and hit the games at Beercade, or enjoy a beverage on the back patio at St Andrew's. Discounts are available to festival pass holders.
free and open to the public (21+)
Red Carpet Happy Hour Reception
Show off your red carpet style and snap a photo with Party Booth Omaha. Check out the special cocktail menu and local beer offerings while experiencing a live art session by Spencer Long. Be sure to pick up your festival passes and check out the merch table.
free and open to the public
Festival Kickoff Party
Join us at Krug Park to celebrate the opening of the 2026 festival! Enjoy discounts on craft beer, signature cocktails, and the best Bloody Mary lineup in town. Pick up your festival pass, meet fellow festival attendees and filmmakers, and be the first to grab new merch!
free and open to the public