PAFF 2026 RETURNS TO LOS ANGELES CELEBRATING BLACK FILM, ARTS & CULTURE
- Barbara Sam
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
Written by Barbara Sam
[The Pan African Film & Arts Festival] Angeles, CA, The Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF), the largest Black film festival in the United States, returns February 7–22, 2026, for its 34th annual celebration. Founded in 1992 as a cultural response to the civil unrest in Los Angeles, PAFF has grown into an international platform highlighting the stories, artistry, and creativity of the African diaspora. This year’s festival theme, “PAFF Soul,” centers on the emotional, spiritual, and cultural core of Black storytelling, honoring narratives of identity, resilience, love, struggle, and liberation.
Artfest: A Celebration of Visual Storytelling
The festival kicks off with Artfest, February 7–16, at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Theater. More than 100 world-class artists will showcase their work, including paintings, glass, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and mixed media, reflecting the beauty, complexity, and soul of Africa and its diaspora. Artfest offers an immersive experience for art enthusiasts, collectors, and community members to engage with bold, culturally rich artistic expression.
Film Festival: Screening Black Stories to the World
PAFF’s film festival runs February 16–22 with screenings at The Culver Theater and Cinemark Baldwin Hills Crenshaw XD. The 2026 program features 27 World Premieres, 22 U.S. Premieres, 41 West Coast Premieres, and 18 Los Angeles Premieres, offering audiences an unparalleled opportunity to experience groundbreaking documentaries, thought-provoking narratives, and innovative short films from Black filmmakers worldwide.
Hosted by Tony Rock, PAFF Soul Comedy delivers a stacked lineup of comedy heavyweights, TV favorites, viral standouts, and club legends—all in one room for a night of nonstop laughter. Headlining the evening are Tommy Davidson (In Living Color) and Finesse Mitchell (Saturday Night Live), joined by an all-star roster featuring London Brown, Ron G, John Grimes, and Carmen Barton. From sharp observational humor to laugh-out-loud storytelling, PAFF Soul Comedy brings together voices that define Black comedy across generations—delivering big energy, real laughs, and an unforgettable live experience. PAFF Soul Comedy is sponsored in part by Lenox & Parker Magazine.
The festival officially opens on Tuesday, February 17, at the Directors Guild of America Theater with a special screening of One Spoon of Chocolate, an action-thriller drama written, produced, and directed by RZA, who also serves as PAFF’s Celebrity Host for 2026. The film stars Shameik Moore, Paris Jackson, RJ Cyler, Blair Underwood, and Isaiah Hill in his feature film debut, and tells the story of an ex-military convict seeking a fresh start in a small town, only to find unexpected love and unforeseen challenges.
A Platform for Black Excellence
PAFF has long been a springboard for emerging talent in the film and arts industries. Many filmmakers have launched successful careers following their festival debuts, securing distribution deals and global recognition. Beyond screenings, PAFF empowers Black creatives through panel discussions, workshops, and Q&A sessions with industry leaders, fostering community engagement and education for the next generation of storytellers.
Community & Cultural Impact
As the largest Black History Month event in Los Angeles County, PAFF celebrates African and African-American culture through film, art, and live events. From star-studded red carpet galas to interactive workshops, the festival bridges generations and preserves the legacy of Black storytelling. The 2026 celebrity ambassador, RZA, brings added visibility to the festival’s mission of celebrating and amplifying Black voices.
Key Dates & Venues:
Artfest: Feb. 7–16 | Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Theater
Film Festival: Feb. 16–22 | The Culver Theater
Opening Night Gala: Feb. 17 | Directors Guild of America
Panels: Feb. 19–22 | The Culver Theater
Closing Night: Feb. 21 | The Culver Theater
Awards Brunch: Feb. 22 | Location TBA
For a full film guide, screening times, and additional festival details, visit paff.org.
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