The 2026 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF) has officially kicked off, and it’s already looking like a beautifully Black affair! From sneak peeks of highly anticipated films to panel discussions with big stars—this year’s event is off to a fantastic start!
If you can’t make the trip, we’ve got you covered. From the famous faces to the festival-goers living their best lives with a beautiful backdrop, let’s take a look at some of the Black excellence who are celebrating Black film on Martha’s Vineyard this summer.
Gina Prince-Bythewood
Acclaimed director Gina Prince-Bythewood made an appearance at this year’s festival to premiere a sneak peek of her upcoming film, “Children of Blood and Bone.” Afterwards, she participated in a panel discussion.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to What to Watch at the 2026 Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival
Girls’ Trip Fun!
This group of friends decided to jump cute and head into all the fun that lies in store in the Vineyard and at this year’s festival! Points for everybody being dressed stylishly!
Sunny Hostin
“The View” cohost Sunny Hostin decided to take a quick trip from New York City to the Vineyard to moderate a panel discussion for the forthcoming film, “Children of Blood and Bone.”
Opening Night of Fun!
Ain’t no party like an MVAAFF party, and these partygoers at the opening night festival are having a ball! Now that’s how you kick things off!
Thuso Mbedu
“Children of Blood and Bone” star Thuso Mbedu spoke on a panel about the film alongside Gina Prince-Bythewood and Sunny Hostin during the festival. The film is slated to drop in January 2027.
Nneka Onuorah
Filmmaker Nneka Onuorah stopped by MVAAFF to speak on GLAAD’s “Reel Change: Black Film, Culture, and the Stories That Shape Us” panel discussion. Per usual, she looked fly!
Laverne Cox
Laverne Cox was also a speaker on GLAAD’s panel and came through in royal blue and honey blonde and brown hairdo!
Fly Fashions
@clairesulmers #ootd #marthasvineyard in @Andrea Iyamah x @12PM STUDIOS sunglasses
#marthasvineyardlife #thebomblife #clairesulmers
Fashion Bomb Daily founder Claire Sulmers stepped out on Martha’s Vineyard looking every bit stylish, chic, and comfortable! How does one effortlessly slay like this? We need notes and the rulebook, sis!
Glynn Turman
Veteran actor Glynn Turman brought the sunshine to the festival, looking mighty dapper in his yellow suit! OK, Mr. Turman! We see you!
Phylicia Rashad
Acting legend Phylicia Rashad made an appearance during a panel discussion. There’s just something about seeing her that always screams royalty. We truly love to see it!
Mother and Daughter Bonding!
@ebonywilllliams Black African American Film Festival OOTD
#fyp #marthasvineyard #ootd #momanddaughtergoals #vacationoutfits
This mother-daughter duo did a quick fit check before heading out to take in the films at MVAAFF, and we’ve got to say—they both are stunners! That’s how you pop out and show two generations of great style!
Black-Owned Businesses on Deck!
@medasecocktails DAY ONE OF THE MARTHA’S VINEYARD AFRICAN AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL IS COMPLETE! We had such an amazing time serving our zero-proof cocktails and were excited to see so many familiar faces from last year. We will have a bar in the Vineyard Lounge for the remainder of the festival from 10am – 8pm daily
Thank you to everyone who stopped by! If we saw you, comment your favorite cocktail
The one other good thing about seeing an array of Black films at MVAFF? Supporting Black businesses too, like MEDASE Cocktails! This premium zero-proof cocktail brand was founded by two Howard University sisters and gives you an elevated, authentic cocktail experience—without the alcohol! (Author’s note: I’ve tried these before, and they are indeed the truth and have a variety of delicious flavors! This is certainly a brand to watch!)
An All-Around Lituation!
@petahjay First time in Martha’s Vineyard went up sumn crazy! Turnt up w/ my twin @Ryn Hills c/o @TheVineyardLegacy x @Yellow Party
While all-white parties are fun, an all-yellow party is unique and clearly got the crowd jumping! Next year, we’ll be sure to RSVP, because we definitely need to be there!
