The American Black Film Festival (ABFF), one of the world’s leading showcases for Black storytelling in film and television, has announced dates for its milestone 30th anniversary edition, themed “The Homecoming.” The festival will return to Miami Beach from May 27 to 31, 2026, bringing together alumni, industry leaders, and new voices in what promises to be its most significant celebration yet.
Founded in 1997 by Jeff Friday, ABFF was established to empower emerging talent and strengthen the independent film community through collaboration, education, and cultural exchange. Over the last three decades, it has grown into Hollywood’s premier talent discovery platform for filmmakers and creators of African descent. Today, the festival attracts a global audience of more than 7,000 attendees each year, offering five days of screenings, master classes, panel discussions, networking, and lifestyle experiences.
The 2026 festival will carry a special resonance, with programming shaped in part by ABFF alumni and longtime supporters who launched their careers on the festival’s stage. This approach, organizers say, is designed to ensure that “The Homecoming” theme captures the spirit of legacy and community that has defined ABFF for 30 years.
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“ABFF has always been about discovery, celebration, and connection,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF founder and CEO of NICE CROWD. “For 30 years, we’ve created a platform where diverse voices could be seen, heard, and supported. This anniversary is about honoring the alumni who shaped our story while inspiring the next generation of storytellers.”
Nicole Friday, President of NICE CROWD, described ABFF as more than a festival, calling it “a cultural home.” She added, “As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded of the power of community and the importance of amplifying new voices. We cannot wait to welcome alumni, audiences, and industry partners back to Miami for our most meaningful edition yet.”
Over the years, ABFF has served as an early showcase for talents such as Ryan Coogler, Ava DuVernay, Issa Rae, Kevin Hart, Will Packer, F. Gary Gray, and Omari Hardwick, among others. It has also attracted ambassadors including Idris Elba, Halle Berry, Taraji P. Henson, Lena Waithe, Anthony Mackie, Regina Hall, and Nia Long, while featuring keynote conversations with icons like Denzel Washington, Angela Bassett, Spike Lee, Queen Latifah, and Kerry Washington.
Film submissions for the 30th anniversary edition are now officially. Categories include Narrative Features, Documentary Features, Series, Voices of Culture, African Stories, and an AI and XR Storytelling Showcase in partnership with GRX Immersive Labs. Submissions close on February 10, 2026.
The anniversary festival is backed by key partners, including the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, Ally Financial, American Airlines, City of Miami Beach, Netflix, and Variety. More announcements about programming and special events will be released in the coming months.
With “The Homecoming,” ABFF is poised to celebrate three decades of cultural impact while reaffirming its role as the launchpad for the next wave of Black creators shaping the future of global entertainment.
