The American Black Film Festival (ABFF) has long been Miami’s main mid-July attraction, drawing filmmakers, actors, and audiences from around the world to celebrate Black storytelling.
Ahead of its 30th anniversary, the premiere film festival has announced the ABFF Pop-Up Tour: a new initiative that brings the festival’s energy and influence directly into major markets like New York, Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
Founded by Jeff and Nicole Friday under their production company NICE CROWD, ABFF has become one of the premier global platforms for Black creators. For three decades, it’s been the stage where breakthrough talents debut, careers are launched, and cultural conversations ignite.
“For nearly three decades, ABFF has been a cornerstone for showcasing and elevating Black storytelling,” said Jeff Friday, ABFF Cofounder and CEO of 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. By bringing the ABFF experience directly into local communities, we’re creating new spaces to discover talent, celebrate creativity, and unite through the power of film and shared culture. We’re excited to partner with Ally Financial to help bring this vision to life.”
The Pop-Up Tour will roll out from October through December, adding a fresh, city-to-city dimension to the traditional summer festival.
ABFF’s growth has always been anchored in collaboration—with audiences, artists, and corporate sponsors who understand the festival’s cultural significance. For the Pop-Up Tour, Ally Financial is stepping in as a key partner.
“Ally honors the remarkable talent and creativity showcased at the American Black Film Festival Pop-Up Tour as a part of our long-standing commitment as a true ally to Black and brown creators and artists,” said Erica Hughes, senior director, 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.”
For filmmakers and audiences alike, ABFF’s expansion signals more than just growth—it’s a redefinition of access. Instead of waiting for one annual gathering in Miami, communities in cultural hubs across the country will have the opportunity to experience the festival’s energy firsthand. From panels and screenings to networking opportunities, the Pop-Up Tour is set to create spaces where stories can be shared, talent can be discovered, and the legacy of Black creativity continues to evolve.
Tour dates:
- New York – October 25–26 | AMC Lincoln Square
- Atlanta – November 8–9 | AMC Madison Yards
- Dallas – November 15–16 | AMC NorthPark
- Los Angeles – December 13–14 | AMC The Grove
Tickets go on sale on September 12. For more information about the American Black Film Festival PopUp Tour, click here.
