Nacogdoches Could See New Movie Theater Soon, Pending City Council Approval

We've discussed this before...Nacogdoches is a college town without a movie theater (other than the one on the SFA Campus - Yes, I know...). It's been that way since 2024. The old movie theater wasn't in great shape and it closed down. It never reopened, and nothing ever took its place. However, based on the posted agenda items for the upcoming Nacogdoches City Council Meeting, that could all be changing.

Nacogdoches City Council to Consider Agreement with Icon Cinema

According to agenda item 8A for the May 5, 2026 City Council Meeting, the City Council will be considering approval that would authorize an agreement between the city and the movie theater company. The item report states that "Icon Cinema Nacogdoches, LLC is seeking to renovate, or cause to be renovated, the former movie theater...for the purpose of operating a newly renovated movie theater..."

Now, this wouldn't be an immediate thing. There's a pretty hefty price tag associated with the renovations, as well as purchase of all new equipment and furnishings to make it operational again. As you can see from the document, Icon Cinema has requested a ten-year sales tax rebate, in exchange for bringing in a new movie theater.

Will a New Movie Theater Really Happen for Nacogdoches?

I know that there are still a lot of variables to consider and a lot of steps that have to be taken before this becomes reality for Nacogdoches. However, the fact that all of this is even being discussed to this extent is pretty exciting for the community.

READ MORE: Nacogdoches is Still Waiting for a Movie Theater Comeback

Now, we just have to wait and see how the City Council Meeting goes. It's set to take place on Tuesday, May 5th at 5:30.