The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is heading back to Miami Beach for its 30th anniversary from May 27–31, 2026 — and this year’s theme says it all: “The Homecoming.”
Since its founding in 1997 by Jeff Friday, ABFF has been the place where careers are launched, culture is amplified, and community is celebrated. Over the past three decades, the festival has introduced the world to storytellers like Ryan Coogler, Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Steven Caple Jr., and Reinaldo Marcus Green, while hosting unforgettable conversations with icons including Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Spike Lee, Queen Latifah, and Kerry Washington.
This milestone year will bring something new: ABFF alumni and longtime supporters will help curate the lineup, ensuring the festival not only looks back at its legacy but also forward to the next generation of talent.
“ABFF has always been about discovery, celebration, and connection,” said founder Jeff Friday, CEO of Nice Crowd. “The Homecoming is about honoring the alumni who helped shape our legacy and inspiring the next generation of storytellers to create work that will define the future.”
“As we celebrate this incredible milestone, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of continuing to amplify new voices,” added Nicole Friday, President of Nice Crowd. “ABFF has become more than a festival — it’s a cultural home. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to Miami for what will be our most meaningful celebration yet.”
Submissions Now Open
Filmmakers — it’s your time. Submissions are officially open through February 10, 2026 in the following categories:
- Narrative Features – Feature-length films directed, written, or produced by people of African descent. Compete for Jury Awards like Best Narrative Feature, Best Director, and the John Singleton Award for Best Debut Feature.
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Documentary Features – Non-fiction features directed by or about people of African descent. Eligible for the Jury Award for Best Documentary Feature.
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Series – Short-form series created by or featuring people of African descent. Projects compete for the Jury Award for Best Series.
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Voices of Culture – A non-competitive showcase of short films that reflect the global Black experience. Invitation-only, with works often selected from the HBO® Short Film Award competition.
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African Stories – A non-competitive program spotlighting short films from Africa’s rising voices. Curated to highlight the continent’s storytelling traditions and creativity.
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AI and XR Storytelling Showcase – An experimental, non-competitive showcase featuring bold new works made with artificial intelligence and immersive tech, curated in partnership with GRX Immersive Labs.
Submit your project now at www.abff.com/miami/submissions.
With more than 7,000 attendees gathering each year for five days of screenings, master classes, panels, and networking — the 30th anniversary is shaping up to be ABFF’s most powerful celebration yet.