Since 2000, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Dayton has been holding an annual film festival to provide access to Jewish-themed films that might otherwise not be available for viewing in their community. During the month of June 2026, the Dayton International Jewish Film Festival will again present a range of films from comedies and dramas to documentaries, shorts and a children’s movie.
Beginning with just three films 25 years ago, the festival now screens up to 14 films, providing access to world cinema that promotes awareness of and appreciation for Jewish culture. “The Dayton Jewish Film Festival provides moviegoers the opportunity to laugh, cry, learn and discuss — all in a welcoming, warm atmosphere,” said Marc Jacob, executive director of the Jewish Community Center of Greater Dayton. “It allows people to come together in a nonjudgmental atmosphere to share their thoughts and discuss ideas in a safe environment.”
The chair of the 2026 Dayton Jewish International Film Festival Committee is Michael Herrlein, with organizing support from the professional staff at the JCC. Marc, who has been involved with the festival for about nine years, said, “Our committee puts in many hours over an 11-month period selecting films and tackling tasks such as marketing, fundraising, speaker bookings and hospitality.
One of oldest film festivals in Dayton, it found a home base at the Neon Movie Theatre in the Oregon District downtown. “Over the years, we have added components to the festival such as a grand opening night reception, guest speakers and a children’s movie,” Marc said. “The introduction of festival passes and online viewing has helped expand the festival experience.”
If you love thought-provoking movies or films about the Jewish experience, then the Dayton Jewish Film Festival is an event to watch for. “We can’t forget to mention that all attendees are treated to complimentary popcorn at every movie screened at the Neon Movie Theatre,” Marc noted. Who can beat that?!
Dayton International Jewish Film Festival
Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursday throughout the month of June 2026
jewishdayton.org/agencies/jewish-community-center/film-festival