Virginia Black Film Festival and Black Business Expo with Celebrity Speakers and Military News Events

Landmark Military Newspapers Events: Celebrity Speakers, Virginia Black Film Festival & Black Business Expo in Hampton

Hampton, Virginia is set to become the heart of vibrant cultural celebration and entrepreneurial spirit as it hosts a remarkable lineup of events this Juneteenth Weekend. Among the highlights are the Virginia Black Film Festival, the Black Business Expo, and appearances by celebrity speakers, all of which come together under the support of Landmark Military Newspapers and MilitaryNews.com. This ambitious slate is more than just entertainment—it’s a powerful recognition of Black achievements, history, and business, promising a weekend of connection, knowledge, and inspiration.

Virginia Black Film Festival: Amplifying Black Voices in Cinema

Now in its second year, the Virginia Black Film Festival brings vital Black stories to the forefront, partnering with the City of Hampton to showcase over 60 films in competition. The festival kicks off on June 19 and continues through June 22, spreading across locations like The American Theatre, Hampton University, and Fort Monroe. Audiences can anticipate a dynamic mix of comedies, documentaries, and holiday films, including the much-anticipated “33 Black Frog: An American Story”—a documentary spotlighting one of the first African American men to join the Navy’s Underwater Demolition Team, a forerunner to the elite Navy SEALs.

The festival isn’t just about movies; it’s a celebration of community, knowledge, and legacy. Attendees can join hands-on workshops and expert panels to learn about filmmaking and the business behind it. Renowned industry figures, such as actor Tim Reid (“Sister, Sister,” “WKRP in Cincinnati”), Clifton Powell (“Ray”), and producer BK Fulton (a Hampton native with notable film and stage credits), will be honored at a Sunday night Charity Awards Gala, adding gravity and star-power to the proceedings.

Families and film enthusiasts are especially welcome, with several events designed as free and open to the public. For information on schedules and tickets—which start at $30 for day access—explore the festival’s official website. Full weekend packages and special event tickets, like the popular stage combat course, are also available. Dive into the full offerings at Virginia Black Film Festival[4].

Black Business Expo: Championing Black Entrepreneurship

Running concurrently with the film festival, the Hampton Roads Black Business Expo aims to make Black-owned enterprises more visible and accessible within both the cinematic and wider business community. Hosted at The American Theatre, the expo runs Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, offering attendees a unique opportunity to meet, network, and shop directly from a diverse array of local Black businesses and entrepreneurs.

Admission is free, and the expo is structured for an engaging experience: two large adjoining salons will house dozens of exhibitor booths, providing plenty of space to explore innovative products and services. The setting encourages dialog and partnership, welcoming both industry veterans and those new to the entrepreneurial world. Anyone interested can sign up at the expo to receive a free welcome gift and make the most out of this networking hub. More on the schedule and details can be found on the official event page[2].

Community Events and Living History

Festivities begin with a lively Juneteenth Beach Party at Paradise Ocean Club on Fort Monroe, followed by an energetic concert in the historic fort district, offering a perfect blend of cultural pride and summer fun. This open format encourages everyone to participate, further emphasized by the free family-friendly activities peppered throughout the weekend. The festival is expected to draw thousands, highlighting the deep resonance these celebrations hold for the local community.

This year’s activities do more than entertain—they foster educational opportunities. Proceeds from the festival help fund scholarships for HBCU students via the Black Arts Foundation, which supports a $50,000 endowment for Hampton University arts students, contributing to a lasting impact in the region.

To see the full event rundown and find out how the celebration ties into Juneteenth and community-building, visit this event summary[3].

Recognizing Achievements and Honoring Legacies

Honorees Tim Reid, Clifton Powell, and BK Fulton exemplify the breadth and impact of Black talent in film, television, and beyond. Their recognition at the Charity Awards Gala shines a spotlight on excellence and inspires rising creators, guests, and the broader public to pursue their passions with vigor.

For a reflective look at the meaning behind these events and their impact on both military and Black communities, you can find more on MilitaryNews.com.

Supporting Links and Where to Participate

• Discover films, speakers, and tickets for the Virginia Black Film Festival here
• Check out Black Business Expo scheduling and exhibitor details here
• Explore the full event calendar and special Juneteenth activities via Visit Hampton
• Learn more about Hampton University’s role in supporting this cultural milestone here
• For continuous news on local military and cultural events, follow MilitaryNews.com

Hampton’s Juneteenth Weekend not only celebrates Black excellence in film and business but also forges a stronger, more vibrant community through art, heritage, and entrepreneurial passion. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate, network, and be inspired at one of the year’s most compelling cultural gatherings.