EVENTS

Thursday, June 4, 2026

OPENING NIGHT WELCOME, NETWORK MIXER

Time: 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Film starts at 6:45pm

9110 Kings Parade Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273

Kick off the festival with an evening of great vibes, Opening night Film, and real connections. mingle, and celebrate with filmmakers, actors, and creatives as we set the tone for an unforgettable festival experience.

Friday, June 5, 2026

COFFEE CONVERSATIONS

All Black No Sugar No Cream

TIME: 10:00AM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Join us for an engaging panel discussion where Youth and creatives share real insights, experiences, and gems. Be part of meaningful conversations that inspire, inform, and connect.

Experience the Power of Independent Black Cinema

June 5, 2026 TIME: 10:00AM-8PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

The 16th Annual Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) proudly showcases more than 100 independent films close to 40 in person and 100 on our streaming platform from emerging and established filmmakers from around the world. These powerful stories celebrate Black culture, creativity, innovation, resilience, and the universal human experience through the art of film.

AI in Film Production

Presented by Tommy Nichols
Founder, Charlotte Black Film Festival | President, LinkVine
30-Year Technology Professional

Artificial Intelligence is transforming every stage of filmmaking—from concept development and scriptwriting to production, post-production, marketing, and audience engagement. In this interactive 60-minute master class, Tommy Nichols will provide filmmakers, content creators, producers, students, and media professionals with practical insights into how AI tools are reshaping the future of film production.

Friday June 5, 2026 TIME: 2:15PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

LOVE & FILM CONVERSATION, GAMES & PRIZES

Free with any ticket

TIME: 7PM

LOCATION: AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Saturday, June 6, 2026

PITCH ME COMPETITION

TIME: 9:00 AM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Step into the spotlight and pitch your film or series idea to industry professionals. Gain valuable feedback, make connections, and compete for a chance to bring your vision to life.

Film & Panel Discussion

FREE with RSVP

Time:10:00 AM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Charlotte Black Film Festival Presents: Film & Panel Discussion
Featuring the Documentary: Respect My Crown: The Rise of African American Women in Politics

Join the Charlotte Black Film Festival for a powerful film screening followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring political and community leaders shaping the future of North Carolina.

Trailer: https://youtu.be/neBTA1VMOkE?feature=shared

Experience the Power of Independent Black Cinema

June 6, 2026 TIME: 10AM-5PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

The 16th Annual Charlotte Black Film Festival (CBFF) proudly showcases more than 100 independent films from emerging and established filmmakers from around the world. These powerful stories celebrate Black culture, creativity, innovation, resilience, and the universal human experience through the art of film.

From compelling documentaries and inspiring student films to groundbreaking animations and award-winning features, CBFF provides audiences with a diverse cinematic experience that entertains, educates, and inspires.

ACTORS IDOL

YOUTH & ADULTS TIME: 1:45 PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Watch talent take center stage as actors deliver powerful performances in a live competition. Feel the energy, support rising talent, and witness unforgettable moments.

MY BEAT YOUR MOVIE

SATURDAY TIME: 3:00PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Experience a one-of-a-kind creative showdown where music meets film. Watch producers and filmmakers bring visuals to life through sound in an exciting, high-energy battle.

FILM DISTRUBUTION

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Presented by Mark Harris
Saturday, June 6, 2026 | 3:15 PM
Ayrsley Grand Cinema | Charlotte Black Film Festival

Getting your film made is a major accomplishment. Getting it seen by the right audience is where the real journey begins.

Join filmmaker, producer, and industry veteran Mark Harris for an exclusive master class designed to help filmmakers understand the business, strategy, and opportunities behind successful film distribution. Harris has written, produced, and directed multiple independent feature films, including Black Coffee, No Regrets, Couples' Night, Black Butterfly, I Used to Love Her, and more.

RED CARPET VISION AWARDS

BOWTIE'S & SNEAKERS GALA

Red Carpet at 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM

Awards 7:30PM

AYRSLEY GRAND CINEMA

9110 KINGS PARADE BLVD, CHARLOTTE, NC, 28273

Step onto the red carpet for a night of celebration, style, and recognition. Honor the best in Black filmmaking and be part of an unforgettable awards experience.

Sunday, June 7, 2026 9am

PRAYER BREAKFAST

LOCATION: Embassy Suites by Hilton Charlotte Ayrsley

1917 Ayrsley Town Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273

TIME: 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

Start your day with a moment of inspiration, reflection, and community. Join us for an uplifting gathering focused on encouragement and connection.

Copyright 2026 Charlotte Black Film Festival, All Rights Reserved.