Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival 2027

The ninth Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival runs January 20–31, 2027, presenting puppetry at venues across the city. The festival explores the art form far beyond children’s entertainment, with programming intended for adults as well as family audiences.

What to expect

The organizer describes a citywide festival spanning intimate spaces and larger theaters, with approaches ranging from shadow puppetry to work influenced by Japanese bunraku. Each production has its own venue, running time and audience guidance; the festival dates cover a collection of separate performances rather than one continuous show.

Plan your visit

Browse the final lineup and buy tickets for the specific productions you want to see. Check age recommendations, language and accessibility information for each show, and allow travel time when combining performances at different venues. The full program and ticket availability should be confirmed on the festival website.

Listed date: January 20–January 31, 2027. Location: Venues across Chicago, Chicago, IL.

Official event information and tickets.