Benefit LUNAFEST film fest celebrating women in the arts returning to Oswego

It may be awards season for Hollywood blockbusters, but films from some of the best new directors of the indie circuit will be headed straight to Oswego.

The Oswego Cultural Arts Commission celebrates women in the arts with the return of LUNAFEST, a fundraising film festival of shorts by and about women from 3 to 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 at Oswego Village Hall, 100 Parkers Mill.

This year’s lineup includes the opportunity to see the latest works by directors who have been screened at Cannes, SXSW, and Palm Springs ShortFest, among other prestigious festivals.

The films cover topics such as identity, aging, life changes and breaking through gender barriers. Films featured at LUNAFEST are not rated, however, organizers suggest that this year’s lineup will be most suited to viewers ages 14 and older.

In addition to the films, the event will include a celebration of the arts with live artist demonstrations. Participate in a raffle, film discussion, and an opportunity to make and take your own film-inspired artistic creation. Complimentary coffee, hot chocolate and light fare will be included. Soft drinks, bottled water and wine will be available for purchase.

Tickets to this year's LUNAFEST are $23.91 if purchased by 11:59 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, at lunafest.eventbrite.com. All fees are included.

Tickets cost $28 at the door, if available. Cash and credit will be accepted at the door.

Proceeds from LUNAFEST will benefit Mutual Ground in its mission to create a community free of domestic and sexual violence through its shelter and education programs; and also benefits Chicken & Egg Pictures, a national nonprofit organization that supports women nonfiction filmmakers whose artful and innovative storytelling catalyzes social change. To date, LUNAFEST, which is created and funded by LUNA, The Whole Nutrition Bar for Women, has raised more than $5.2 million for nonprofit organizations across the U.S. and Canada.

Event information is also available at GoOswego.org.

For information, contact Julie Hoffman, community engagement coordinator, at 630-551-2344 or email jhoffman@oswegoil.org.