About this Event
WELCOME TO URBANFEST 360° ORLANDO 2026
Where Film, Fashion, Music, Food, Culture, & Community Connect
Welcome to UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026, a three day celebration of creativity, storytelling, and culture that brings together filmmakers, actors, musicians, fashion designers, artists, entrepreneurs, students, educators, and communities from around the world.
UrbanFest 360° isn't just an event, it's a celebration of creativity, culture, and community where stories inspire, connections flourish, and strangers become family.
Whether you're an award-winning filmmaker, an aspiring artist, a student exploring creative careers, or attending your very first festival, you'll find a welcoming environment that celebrates creativity, encourages collaboration, and creates lasting connections.
Throughout the weekend, discover award winning films, engaging panel discussions, inspiring community forums, live entertainment, networking opportunities, and unforgettable cultural experiences designed to celebrate artistic excellence, strengthen communities, and inspire the next generation of creative leaders.
Whether you come for the films, the conversations, the music, the fashion, the food, or simply the experience, you'll discover why so many people leave UrbanFest feeling like family.
SIGNATURE FESTIVAL EXPERIENCES
Every Story. Every Voice. Every Culture. Every Generation. One Festival. 360 Degrees.
Every UrbanFest 360° experience is thoughtfully curated to entertain, educate, inspire, and create meaningful connections between artists, audiences, students, families, industry professionals, and the community.
Opening Night Conversation & Audience Q&A
Celebrate inspiring storytelling.
Launch the festival with an exclusive Opening Night conversation featuring acclaimed writer, director, and producer David A. Fortune. Tribeca $1M winner, SXSW winner and Varities top 10 list of new directors to watch.
Enjoy a special screening of one of David's acclaimed projects, followed by an engaging conversation about his creative journey, the art of independent filmmaking, and the future of storytelling, along with a live audience Q&A.
Love, Patrick
Celebrating fashion, creativity, and cultural legacy.
Experience the acclaimed documentary honoring the extraordinary life and legacy of the visionary black american fashion designer Patrick Kelly who changed the fashion world.
Following the screening, join members of the filmmaking team and friends of Patrick for an audience conversation exploring Patrick Kelly's lasting influence on fashion, creativity, and culture.
UrbanFest Fashion 360°
Fashion as art. Fashion as culture.
After the documentary experience UrbanFest Fashion 360°, the festival's signature runway showcase celebrating fashion as storytelling, identity, and artistic expression.
Inspired by Patrick Kelly's enduring legacy, this one-night event features emerging and established designers whose collections reflect innovation, creativity, and cultural influence through an unforgettable celebration of fashion, music, and community.
Chadwick Boseman Tribute
Honoring a legacy that continues to inspire.
Celebrate the extraordinary life and lasting legacy of Chadwick Boseman, recognizing his remarkable contributions to film, culture, leadership, and social impact.
Official Film Selections
Discover voices from around the world.
Experience an inspiring collection of feature films, documentaries, short films, student films, music videos, and international cinema.
Each official selection has been chosen for its ability to entertain, educate, and spark meaningful conversations while showcasing the diverse voices shaping today's storytelling landscape.
Music, Movement & Global Culture
Experience the global influence of Black culture.
Explore a compelling collection of documentaries and short films celebrating the worldwide influence of Black music, dance, and culture.
Journey from the birthplace of hip hop and breaking to South Africa's vibrant house music movement, and discover the remarkable story of how Black American hip hop inspired a community in England known as Compton.
These films demonstrate how music, movement, and culture transcend borders, inspire generations, and connect communities around the world.
Compton Cowboys Youth Engagement Experience
Where film inspires the next generation.
One of UrbanFest 360°'s signature experiences, the Compton Cowboys Youth Engagement Experience blends film, education, culture, and community into an inspiring celebration of leadership, mentorship, and resilience.
Experience special screenings on the history of the Compton Cowboys followed by an engaging panel featuring filmmakers, special guests, and community leaders exploring youth empowerment, cultural preservation, and the enduring legacy of the modern Black cowboy.
Featured Guests, Honorees & Industry Leaders
Meet an extraordinary lineup of award-winning actors, filmmakers, producers, directors, writers, musicians, entrepreneurs, educators, and cultural leaders.
Visit the Lineup section below for featured guests, honorees, filmmakers, panelists, and additional announcements.
Industry Panels & Conversations
Learn from today's creative leaders.
Go behind the scenes with actors, producers, directors, writers, casting professionals, talent representatives, distributors, musicians, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders as they share practical insights, creative journeys, and advice for the next generation.
Community Forums
Conversations that inspire change.
UrbanFest 360° believes great stories can inspire meaningful conversations.
Join filmmakers, educators, advocates, public officials, and community leaders as they explore issues affecting our communities while encouraging dialogue, understanding, and positive change.
Creative Futures Initiative
Empowering tomorrow's creative leaders.
Investing in the next generation is central to the UrbanFest 360° mission.
Through the Creative Futures Initiative, students and emerging creatives gain mentorship, educational workshops, hands on experiences, career exploration opportunities, and direct access to accomplished professionals across film, television, music, fashion, and the arts.
Festival Food & Flavor
Great food. Great conversations. Great community.
Take a break between screenings, panels, and special events to enjoy delicious offerings from local food vendors, including our featured BBQ truck.
Whether you're networking over lunch, meeting fellow filmmakers, or simply relaxing with family and friends, great food helps create the welcoming atmosphere that makes UrbanFest feel like home.
Live Music Celebration
Celebrating the soundtrack of our community.
Before the Awards Show, enjoy an exciting live music showcase featuring outstanding local artists representing the vibrant talent of Central Florida.
Celebrate emerging performers while gathering with fellow festival guests for an unforgettable evening of music and community.
UrbanFest 360° Signature Awards Show
Honoring excellence. Celebrating impact.
Celebrate the festival's grand finale at the UrbanFest 360° Signature Awards Show, recognizing extraordinary individuals whose achievements have made a lasting impact on film, television, music, fashion, arts, culture, and community.
Join us for an inspiring evening honoring visionary artists, creative leaders, and changemakers whose work continues to shape the future of our communities and creative industries.
Networking Opportunities
Where connections become collaborations.
Some of the festival's most meaningful moments happen between events.
Meet filmmakers, actors, writers, producers, musicians, entrepreneurs, educators, nonprofit leaders, students, and industry professionals in a welcoming environment where conversations become collaborations and new connections often become lasting friendships.
Be Part of the Experience
Whether you're joining us for a single event or spending the entire weekend with us, UrbanFest 360° invites you to discover award-winning films, inspiring conversations, live music, fashion, delicious food, meaningful connections, and unforgettable cultural experiences.
Come celebrate creativity. Discover new voices. Build lasting relationships. Experience a festival where stories inspire, cultures connect, and strangers become family.
Reserve your tickets today and join us for UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026—Where Film, Fashion, Music, Food, Culture & Community Connect.
Guest appearances, film programming, schedules, and festival experiences are subject to change based on professional commitments and availability.
Follow @UrbanFest360 on Instagram for exclusive guest announcements, schedule updates, behind-the-scenes moments, giveaways, and everything leading up to UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026.
Questions? We're here to help.
Call or Text: (323) 974-7170
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @UrbanFest360
Website: www.UrbanFest360.com
Fri, September 18th, 2026
?: 05:00 PM - 06:00 PM
UrbanFest 360° Opening Celebration
Host: Timothy Starks
Info: HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS CONFERENCE ROOM
Kick off UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026 at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando – International Drive, the Official Hotel of UrbanFest 360°, with festival registration, a welcome reception, champagne toast, official cake cutting, sponsor recognition, opening remarks, and the opportunity to connect with filmmakers, special guests, community leaders, and fellow festival attendees before walking together to AFRO TV Studios for the Official Opening Night Red Carpet.
?: 06:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Opening Night Red Carpet
Host: UrbanFest 360°
Info: AFRO TV STUDIOS Join filmmakers, special guests, sponsors, community leaders, honorees, and fellow attendees on the Official Opening Night Red Carpet at AFRO TV Studios as UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026 officially begins. Capture photos, celebrate the festival, and experience the excitement before the Opening Night program.
?: 06:30 PM - 07:45 PM
Opening Ceremony & Opening Night Shorts Program
Host: Gabby Kennedy UrbanFest 360° Director of Marketing
Info: AFRO TV Studios
Celebrate the official opening of UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026 with welcome remarks, followed by a curated program of outstanding short films from emerging and established filmmakers whose stories reflect the diversity, creativity, and global spirit of the festival.
?: 07:45 PM - 08:45 PM
Spotlight Conversation with Director & Writer David A. Fortune
Host: David A. Fortune
Info: Join acclaimed director and writer David A. Fortune for an engaging conversation about filmmaking, storytelling, and his creative journey, followed by an audience Q&A.
?: 08:45 PM - 09:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Host: Derrick Brown President UrbanFest 360°
Info: Join festival leadership as we conclude Opening Night and preview the exciting films, panels, community forums, and special events still to come throughout the festival weekend.
?: 09:15 PM - 11:00 PM
Opening Night Mixer
Host: UrbanFest 360° Team
Info: Holiday Inn Conference Center
Continue the celebration at the Holiday Inn Conference Center, where filmmakers, actors, special guests, sponsors, and festival attendees come together for an evening of networking, conversation, music, and community. Build new relationships, reconnect with friends, and celebrate the opening of UrbanFest 360° Orlando 2026 in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Sat, September 19, 2026
Featured events only. Additional screenings and Q&As throughout the day.
?: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Creative Futures Youth Mentorship: Derrick & Kevin Boseman. Chadwick's Bros
Host: The Boseman Family LLC
Info: Experience inspiring films, meaningful conversations, and a live discussion celebrating youth empowerment, mentorship, leadership, and community through the stories of the Compton Cowboys. The Boseman Family LLC, Chadwick Boseman's Family, will take part in panel.
?: 01:00 PM - 02:15 PM
UNHEARD VOICES: A Mother's Quest for Freedom
Info: A powerful documentary screening followed by a community conversation exploring justice, resilience, and the impact of incarceration on families.
?: 02:30 PM - 03:45 PM
UrbanFest Shorts Showcase
Info: Discover a curated collection of official short films from emerging and established filmmakers representing diverse voices and compelling stories.
?: 04:00 PM - 06:00 PM
UrbanFest Fashion 360°
Info: Experience the fusion of film and fashion with a special presentation of Love, Patrick, followed by UrbanFest's signature runway showcase featuring innovative designers and creative talent.
?: 07:45 PM - 08:45 PM
Special Film Presentation of Albert's Flower Starring James Picken's Jr
Info: The Producers and Director of Albert's Flower will do a Q&A after the film. James will not attend do to a scheduling conflict.
?: 06:30 PM - 07:30 PM
Late Night Shorts Showcase
Info: Enjoy an evening selection of standout short films celebrating creativity, culture, and independent storytelling
?: 09:00 PM - 11:00 PM
UrbanFest Festival Mixer
Info: Continue the celebration at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando – International Drive, the Official Hotel of UrbanFest 360°. Connect with filmmakers, industry professionals, festival guests, sponsors, and fellow attendees during an evening of networking and conversation.
Sun, September 20, 2026
?: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
THE BOSEMAN FAMILY LLC: A Tribute to Chadwick Boseman - 50 years and beyond
Host: The Boseman Family LLC
Info: THE BOSEMAN FAMILY LLC: A Tribute to Chadwick Boseman – 50 Years and Beyond celebrates the extraordinary life, legacy, and global impact of Chadwick Boseman through an intimate tribute honoring the man, the artist, and the inspiration he continues to be. Join us as we celebrate his 50th year and the enduring legacy of a cultural icon whose work continues to inspire generations.
?: 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM
WORLD CLASS INDIE FEATURE FILMS
Info: WORLD CLASS INDIE FEATURE FILMS
Experience bold, compelling storytelling from exceptional independent filmmakers from around the world, presented on the Afrotainers Stage. Discover powerful voices, fresh perspectives, and unforgettable stories while other films, panels, and festival experiences take place simultaneously in additional theaters throughout UrbanFest 360°.
?: 06:00 PM - 06:45 PM
MUSIC 360° LIVE IN CONCERT
Info: Enjoy an exciting live concert featuring talented local artists, inspiring youth performers, and a special guest performer from The Voice. It’s a celebration of music, community, and the next generation of emerging talent.
?: 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
URBANFEST 360° AWARDS & HONORS
Info: Celebrate an extraordinary evening of special honors and recognition as UrbanFest 360° pays tribute to individuals whose remarkable contributions have shaped entertainment, culture, community, and the world around us. This year’s distinguished honorees include Chadwick Boseman, Val Demings, Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, Michael Polcino of The Simpsons, and legendary jazz drummer Marvin “Smitty” Smith.
The evening will also recognize some of the festival’s outstanding independent films and creative projects, celebrating the filmmakers, artists, and storytellers whose work represents the spirit and vision of UrbanFest 360°. Join us for a memorable finale celebrating legacy, achievement, creativity, and lasting impact.
Forums & Panels Sat 9/19
?: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
PRODUCING AND DISTRIBUTING INDEPENDENT FILMS
Host: Lucky Johnson
Info: Come john Producer Director Lucky Johnson of Tyler Perry Studios and other guest for this panel discussion at the Holiday Inn Express 7276 International Drive. No festival ticket needed this is a complimentary event open to the public, courtesy of UrbanFest 360° and JSL GLOBAL MEDIA
?: 01:00 PM - 02:30 PM
FROM STORY TO SOLUTION: Changing narratives, Reimagining Justice
Host: Freeway Ricky Ross
Info: Freeway Ricky Ross, Tosha Mills, Dr. Yusef Bunchie Shakur, Chief Stanley Murray, Armand Moore. This Forum will discuss how to reimagine justice, make communities better, and how to change the narratives of urban communities, through the justice system and the media,
?: 02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
THE BLK_SCRIPT PRESENTS: BLIND SIDES — LIVE AUDITIONS & CRITIQUES
Host: The BLK_Script Kevin Marable
Info: Experience the audition room like never before as actors take the stage for live auditions in front of an audience, performing scenes and sides while industry professionals observe and provide real-time feedback and constructive critiques. BLIND SIDES gives both performers and audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the audition process, offering valuable insight into what happens in the room and what it takes to make a performance stand out.
?: 03:00 PM - 03:45 PM
DECODING FILM INCENTIVES: WITH INCENTIVE ADMINISTRATOR JEN PENNEYPACKER
Host: Jen Penny Packer Orange County Film Incentive Director
Info: Come get the inside information on film incentives. What are they, How are they given out, What are the loops holes, What makes one city/state better than the other, and Is it a shared benefit for both filmmaker and the city/state?
?: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
THE POLITICS OF BLACK WOMEN IN FILM
Host: Terri Howard VP of Equity at HGA
Info: This Tour put together by African American Women In Cinema - Started at the Cannes Film Festival and making its way across America. We are gracious enough that the picked us as one of the stops. This live and virtual panel discussion, explores how intersectional marginalization, the overlap of race and gender, shapes the representation, production, and spectatorship of Black women on screen and behind the camera. Holiday Inn Express 7276 International Drive. No festival ticket needed this is a complimentary event open to the public, courtesy of UrbanFest 360°, African American Women in Cinema, HGA
Forums & Panels Sun 9/20
?: 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
THE LoAA PRESENTS: ABC's of Acting
Host: Chris Green
Info: Come learn the ABC's of acting Auditioning, Booking, & Craft with veteran Actor Chris Greene who has amassed a very incredible acting resume in TV & Film. Holiday Inn Express 7276 International Drive. No festival ticket needed this is a complimentary event open to the public, courtesy of UrbanFest 360° and THE LoAA
?: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
SAG- AFTRA 101: Contracts, Stunts, & Everything in Between!
Host: Carol Bailey SAG-AFTRA Board Member
Info: Come get information direct from the horses mouth from Executive Directors of SAG-AFTRA. Learn all the ways to become SAG signattory and get your production up and running. It's easier than you've heard or think. Holiday Inn Express 7276 International Drive. No festival ticket needed this is a complimentary event open to the public, courtesy of UrbanFest 360° and SAG-AFTRA
?: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
BREAKING IN: From Talent Agents to Casting Directors
Host: Lucky Johnson Tyler Perry Studios
Info: Learn the ins and outs of getting a agent, getting cast and how the booking process takes place. What are the lines of communication between the agent and the casting director. Holiday Inn Express 7276 International Drive. No festival ticket needed this is a complimentary event open to the public, courtesy of UrbanFest 360° and DETOUR CASTING
?: 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM
A CONVERSATION WITH MICHAEL POLCINO An Emmy-Nominated Director of The Simpsons
Info: Go behind the scenes of one of television’s most iconic and enduring animated series with Michael Polcino, Emmy-nominated director of The Simpsons. In this engaging conversation, Polcino shares insights into his remarkable career, the creative process behind bringing Springfield’s unforgettable characters and stories to life, and the evolution and cultural impact of The Simpsons.
A must-attend conversation for animators, filmmakers, artists, aspiring creatives, and fans of television and animation.
?: 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
HE-MOTIONS: THE WEIGHT WE CARRY — WHAT DON’T MEN SAY ?
Host: Melvin Cotton III
Info: HE-MOTIONS: THE WEIGHT WE CARRY — WHAT DON’T MEN SAY?
Experience the powerful documentary HE-MOTIONS, exploring the emotional weight men carry and the struggles they often keep hidden. While the film speaks to men broadly, it shines an important light on Black men, who are statistically less likely to seek mental-health support, opening the door to an honest conversation about vulnerability, stigma, and asking for help.
Following the screening, join us for a panel discussion on men’s mental health,
?: 01:30 PM - 03:00 PM
WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON INSIDE THE HELMET? Youth Athlete Mental Health Panel
Host: Melvin Cotton III
Info: Documentary followed by a timely conversation about the mental health of high-school athletes. What’s really going on inside the helmet? We’ll explore the pressures young athletes face, the expectations placed on them, and what coaches, parents, schools, and communities can do to better support the young people behind the uniform.
Event venue & nearby stays
AFRO TV, 7220 International Drive, Orlando, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.