Wilmette Theatre

The Wilmette Theatre was established in 1913 as a single-screen movie theatre. The Theatre closed for nearly a decade and reopened in 1930 under new ownership and a new name: The Wilmette Theatre has played host to many fabulous movies and live events over the years and is excited to continue the tradition.

The Wilmette Theatre was established in 1913 and has evolved from a one-screen theater focused solely on films to a two-theater establishment incorporating comedy, story slams, and music in addition to our stellar lineup of first-run, classic and indie films. The Wilmette Theatre has faced hurdles but is still operating after 112 years while many other independent theaters have shuttered. On February 13, 2008, the Theatre was established as an Illinois not-for-profit entity and recognized by the IRS as a section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. In 2024 we were listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Theatre is also a member of League of Historic American Theaters. The Wilmette Theatre serves as a center of engagement for the community and is proud to have approximately 20,000 annual attendees from across the Chicago metropolitan area drawn by our unique offerings.