Landmark Military Newspapers Presents Celebrity Speakers at Virginia Black Film Festival and Black Business Expo

Landmark Military Newspapers Events Spotlight: Virginia Black Film Festival & Black Business Expo Arrives in Hampton

The city of Hampton, Virginia, is set to host one of the region’s most anticipated community events—the second annual Virginia Black Film Festival, alongside the dynamic Black Business Expo. This four-day celebration is fast emerging as a cornerstone for both cinema lovers and entrepreneurs, offering rich cultural experiences, insightful conversations, and direct support for the arts.

A Vibrant Gathering for Film, Community, and Business

Launching amid Juneteenth festivities, the Virginia Black Film Festival opens its doors with a lively beach party at Paradise Ocean Club and continues with a concert at Fort Monroe, setting a vibrant tone for what’s to come. The festival, held June 19–22, 2025, showcases over 60 films in competition, highlighting stories that reflect the Black experience—from comedies and holiday films to gripping documentaries. Among the standout features this year is “33 Black Frog: An American Story,” focusing on one of the first Black members of the Navy’s elite Underwater Demolition Team, a forerunner to today’s Navy SEALs. Screenings are hosted at historic venues including The American Theatre, Hampton University’s student union, and Ogden Hall, making the festival highly accessible to locals and visitors alike.

Business, Networking, and Empowerment

A significant feature of the festival weekend is the co-located Black Business Expo at The American Theatre, running Saturday and Sunday. The expo aims to make Black filmmakers and Black entrepreneurs more visible and accessible to both the greater community and one another. Attendees can connect with industry leaders, learn from accomplished guest speakers, and explore resources that help foster economic empowerment—a mission reflected in the event’s diverse schedule and community partnership model.

Recognition of Excellence and Influential Voices

The 2025 film festival culminates in a star-studded Charity Awards Gala, honoring prominent figures who have shaped the landscape of Black media and entertainment. This year’s honorees include Norfolk native Tim Reid, a renowned producer and actor from iconic series like “Sister, Sister” and “WKRP in Cincinnati.” He is joined by Clifton Powell, known for his work in the Oscar-winning film “Ray,” and BK Fulton, a groundbreaking producer and Hampton native currently making waves in both film and stage. Their outstanding achievements will be celebrated in front of a live audience, spotlighting their ongoing contributions to the arts.

Expanding Opportunities for Students and Creatives

The Virginia Black Film Festival isn’t just an event—it’s a platform for community uplift. Proceeds benefit the Black Arts Foundation’s $50,000 scholarship endowment for Hampton University students pursuing arts degrees, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to opening doors for the next generation of creative minds. With special discounts for students and multiple ticket options ranging from day passes to all-access packages, the event remains inclusive and family-friendly. Several festival workshops—including a three-hour stage combat course—provide rare, hands-on learning opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and performers.

Connecting Culture and Military History

This year’s programming underlines a powerful intersection of culture and military history, honoring the stories and sacrifices of Black veterans. The festival’s selection of documentaries and themed films resonates with the broader tradition of military-focused film festivals in Virginia—such as the distinguished GI Film Festival—demonstrating how cinema can foster a deeper understanding of military life beyond the Hollywood lens. For comparison, events like the GI Film Festival have spotlighted the true experiences of veterans on screen, offering nuanced perspectives often missing from mainstream narratives.

Join the Festival and Support Black Arts

Anyone interested in attending can secure tickets and find further event details by visiting the official Virginia Black Film Festival website. Packages start at $30, with premium options and workshop tickets available, ensuring everyone can take part in this celebration of Black artistry, culture, and entrepreneurship. This multi-faceted festival has proven, in just its second year, to be a crucial part of the regional arts scene—uplifting voices, building networks, and paying tribute to trailblazers whose stories continue to inspire.

For tickets, a full list of events, and information on the Black Business Expo, visit the Virginia Black Film Festival website. Join the conversation on social media for event updates and behind-the-scenes highlights—just search the hashtag #VirginiaBlackFilmFestival on Instagram and Twitter for live coverage and community reactions.

If you’re looking to support Black creatives, connect with business leaders, and celebrate Black military and cultural history, Hampton, Virginia, is the place to be this June.

Read more about the Virginia Black Film Festival, explore the event lineup, or purchase your tickets at the official website. Learn more about Virginia’s film festival scene from the Virginia Film Office and check out last year’s highlights via WHRO Public Media.