American Black Film Festival 2026: Dates Announced, Submissions Open Now!

The American Black Film Festival is set to take place in Miami, Florida, from May 27 to May 31, 2026.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary next year, the festival will embrace the theme “The Homecoming.” This edition will feature a new selection strategy, partially curated by ABFF alumni and long-term contributors.

Since its establishment in 1997, alumni participants will assist in crafting and delivering programs that reflect the “The Homecoming” theme, demonstrating the festival’s impact from its beginnings.

“ABFF has always centered on discovery, celebration, and community,” stated Jeff Friday, the founder of ABFF and CEO of Nice Crowd. “Over three decades, we have developed a venue where diverse talents are visible, acknowledged, and supported. ‘The Homecoming’ is about paying tribute to the alumni who have contributed to our legacy and encouraging a new generation of creatives to produce works that will lead the way forward.”

The festival is currently accepting submissions in various categories until February 10, including narrative features, documentary features, series, voices of culture, African stories, and AI and XR storytelling showcase.

Distinguished past participants of ABFF, whose works have been highlighted, include Ryan Coogler, Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Kevin Hart, Will Packer, F. Gary Gray, Ben Watkins, Steven Caple Jr., Omari Hardwick, Datari Turner, and Reinaldo Marcus Green.

The festival has drawn ambassadors such as Idris Elba, Halle Berry, Taraji P. Henson, Lena Waithe, Anthony Mackie, Regina Hall, Tracee Ellis Ross, Morris Chestnut, Nia Long, and Larenz Tate, and has featured keynote discussions with notable figures including Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Spike Lee, Queen Latifah, Kerry Washington, Gabrielle Union, Kenya Barris, Mara Brock Akil, Malcolm Lee, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and many others.

“As we commemorate this significant milestone, we are reminded of the importance of community and the need to continue elevating fresh voices,” remarked Nicole Friday, President of Nice Crowd. “ABFF has evolved beyond a mere festival; it has become a cultural hub. We eagerly anticipate welcoming back our alumni, audiences, and industry collaborators to Miami for what promises to be our most significant celebration yet.”