ABFF Expands Its Reach With Pop-Up Tour
The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) is taking its mission on the road. From October to December 2025, the festival will host a special Pop-Up Tour across four major U.S. cities: New York City, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
This new initiative will bring independent films, celebrity conversations, and curated panels directly to local audiences. Organizers say the tour creates new opportunities for talent discovery, community connection, and celebration of Black culture.
“For nearly three decades, ABFF has been a cornerstone for showcasing and elevating Black storytelling,” said co-founder Jeff Friday, who also leads Nice CROWD. “The ABFF Pop-Up Tour is a natural evolution of that mission—a mobile cultural movement designed to expand opportunity and deepen connection.”
Black Storytelling at the Heart of the Tour
The festival has always been a platform for amplifying Black voices in film and entertainment. With its 30th anniversary approaching in 2026, ABFF is broadening its impact by stepping outside its annual Miami event.
The Pop-Up Tour will spotlight award-winning independent films and inspiring talks through a speaker series known as BOB Talks, which highlights Black-owned brands. These events are designed to celebrate creativity and provide fresh spaces for dialogue within local communities.
ABFF organizers believe the tour will help create greater access for underrepresented talent and audiences while nurturing a deeper cultural exchange.
Ally Financial and Community Support
The Pop-Up Tour is presented by Nice CROWD with national support from Ally Financial. The partnership reinforces Ally’s long-standing commitment to empowering Black and brown creators.
“Ally honors the remarkable talent and creativity showcased at the American Black Film Festival Pop-Up Tour,” said Erica Hughes, senior director of Ally Marketing. “Elevating their voices, sharing their experiences, and celebrating the unique gifts they bring to our communities is a key piece of Ally’s mission to serve everyone as a financial ally.”
With such backing, the festival is set to expand its reach and ensure that more people across the country can take part in the celebration of Black storytelling.
ABFF Pop-Up Tour Dates and Locations
The American Black Film Festival Pop-Up Tour will make four stops this fall:
- New York City: October 25–26 at AMC Lincoln Square
- Atlanta: November 8–9 at AMC Madison Yards
- Dallas: November 15–16 at AMC NorthPark
- Los Angeles: December 13–14 at AMC The Grove
Each stop will showcase films, host conversations with industry leaders, and provide spaces to honor Black creativity. With the 30th anniversary on the horizon, ABFF is building momentum for what promises to be a landmark year for the festival.
