Cincinnati residents have a unique opportunity to enjoy free movie screenings this Sunday, March 1, as part of a statewide initiative honoring both Ohio’s heritage and its famous natives. The event, titled ‘Steven Spielberg Fest in Cincinnati,’ includes multiple free screenings of Spielberg films at local theaters, marking a special tribute to the film director and producer who was born in the city.

Free Screenings Across Southwest Ohio

Cinemark Theatres is hosting 14 free movie screenings across southwest Ohio, each featuring a film with an Ohio connection. The event is part of a larger initiative called ‘Ohio Goes to the Movies,’ which runs throughout 2026 to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. The statewide program includes over 250 free movie events across Ohio’s 88 counties.

Among the films being shown is Spielberg’s 1991 film Hook, which will screen at Cinemark Milford, and A.I. Artificial Intelligence, which will be shown at Cinemark Western Hills. Another film, The Color Purple, will be featured at Cinemark Oakley Station. These selections are part of a broader effort to highlight the cultural and historical significance of both Spielberg and Ohio.

Rob Lowe Fest Adds to the Celebration

In addition to the Spielberg festival, Cinemark is also hosting a ‘Rob Lowe Fest’ on the same day. The event honors Rob Lowe, a native of Dayton, Ohio, and includes free screenings of three of his films. These include his debut film The Outsiders, which will screen at Cinemark The Greene, as well as Wayne’s World and Tommy Boy, which will be shown at Cinemark Huber Heights, Cinemark Dayton South, and Cinemark Stadium in Sandusky.

The events are part of the same ‘Ohio Goes to the Movies’ initiative, which aims to bring communities together through the shared experience of film. The initiative is not limited to Cincinnati or Dayton but spans across all of Ohio’s counties, offering a diverse range of movie experiences.

Part of a Larger Cultural Initiative

‘Ohio Goes to the Movies’ is a year-long event that is being organized in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the United States. The initiative seeks to celebrate American culture and history through film, with events planned throughout 2026. According to the organizers, the program has already secured participation from over 200 venues across the state, ensuring that the celebration will be widespread and accessible.

Residents can find specific details about the free screenings, including dates, times, and locations, by visiting the official event website, ohiogoestothemovies.org/ogttmevents. The website provides a thorough list of all the events, making it easy for moviegoers to plan their visits.

The initiative is expected to continue through the end of 2026, with more events planned for the coming months. This includes additional festivals and screenings that will highlight other Ohio natives and their contributions to American culture and entertainment.