ABFF TURNS 30!
Community Grown. World Known. 30 Years Strong.
Since 1997, the American Black Film Festival has been the preeminent event celebrating stories by and about people of African descent.
From its trailblazing start as an independent film festival, ABFF has grown into a vibrant showcase of Black culture spanning film, television, music, technology, art, business, sports, wellness, comedy, and more. In 2026, ABFF marks its 30th anniversary under the powerful theme Homecoming—a tribute to the festival’s rich legacy and the global community we’ve cultivated over three decades.
Join us in Miami Beach, May 27-31, 2026, for five unforgettable days of screenings, star-studded events, exclusive parties, and unparalleled networking.
Be part of this once-in-a-generation celebration of culture, community & creativity.
Get Involved
The ABFF is dedicated to showcasing global film and television content created by and about people of African descent. Now accepting submissions for narratives, documentaries, series, and shorts.
Early deadline: November 7
Final deadline: February 10
For sponsorship inquiries, please fill out the form below.
We’re celebrating 30 years of ABFF with our Homecoming edition in Miami Beach, May 27-31, 2026. This year, we’re inviting our community to help shape the festival. Submit your idea for a panel, screening, or special presentation below.
For the best festival experience, purchase your ABFF pass in advance. The earlier you purchase the more you save. Preregistration ends May 1.
Our Home in Miami Beach
Miami Beach, the vibrant host city of the American Black Film Festival for 20 years, perfectly reflects the festival’s commitment to creativity, community, and culture. With its stunning beaches, dynamic art scene, and world-class entertainment, Miami Beach offers an unparalleled backdrop for our celebration of Black excellence in film. Combining sun, fun, style, and sophistication, this iconic city enhances the festival experience, making it the ideal setting for our world-class event.
2026 Sponsors & Partners
Beyond the Festival
The impact of ABFF extends far beyond its annual gathering in Miami Beach, serving year-round as a hub for showcasing the extraordinary talent of Black creatives worldwide through its initiatives, partnerships, and platforms.
ABFF on American Airlines
ABFF and American Airlines have partnered to bring more diverse content to the airline's inflight entertainment system. Each year, a curated collection of short films from the festival is made available on all American flights, reaching over 200 million travelers annually.
ABFF Pop Up Tour
We're hitting the road — bringing the best of the festival to cities across the U.S. for an unforgettable weekend of films, panels, and community!
ABFF Honors
Our awards season gala dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry.
ABFF Global: London
The European installment of the American Black Film Festival's (ABFF) international event series. The weekend festival, produced in partnership with UK-based organization S.O.U.L. FEST, features screenings, panel discussions, master classes and networking activities.
ABFF on American Airlines
ABFF on American Airlines
ABFF and American Airlines have partnered to bring more diverse content to the airline's inflight entertainment system. Each year, a curated collection of short films from the festival is made available on all American flights, reaching over 200 million travelers annually.
ABFF Pop Up Tour
ABFF Pop Up Tour
We're hitting the road — bringing the best of the festival to cities across the U.S. for an unforgettable weekend of films, panels, and community!
ABFF Honors
ABFF Honors
Our awards season gala dedicated to recognizing excellence in the motion picture and television industry.
ABFF Global: London
ABFF Global: London
The European installment of the American Black Film Festival's (ABFF) international event series. The weekend festival, produced in partnership with UK-based organization S.O.U.L. FEST, features screenings, panel discussions, master classes and networking activities.
NICE CROWD News
The 2025 American Black Film Festival Announces "South African Stories" - A Short Film Showcase
FILM UPDATES
April 22, 2025
Because They’re Funny Festival Returns to Washington in October
BILLBOARD
March 25, 2025
ABFF Honors 2025: A Beacon of Light in Uncertain Times
EBONY
February 18, 2025
The 2025 American Black Film Festival Announces "South African Stories" - A Short Film Showcase
FILM UPDATES
April 22, 2025Because They’re Funny Festival Returns to Washington in October
BILLBOARD
March 25, 2025ABFF Honors 2025: A Beacon of Light in Uncertain Times
EBONY
February 18, 2025
