If you’ve never been to the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF), here’s your invitation to something truly special. This isn’t just a film festival. It’s a celebration of Black creativity, legacy, and community — all set against the stunning backdrop of Martha’s Vineyard.

Every August, Oak Bluffs transforms into a vibrant hub of storytelling and connection. It’s where filmmakers, activists, artists, and audiences gather to experience a week of screenings, panels, parties, celebrity sightings and cultural exchange. If you’re joining for the first time, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

Black Excellence in Film. Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. Photo by Tonya Fitzpatrick

Book Early — Seriously Early

Lodging on Martha’s Vineyard, especially in Oak Bluffs, goes fast. Hotels and short-term rentals during festival week fill up months — sometimes a year — in advance. If you want to stay within walking distance of the festival venues and events, start planning as early as possible.

TIP: Contact a local realtor office to see what short-term rentals are available. There’s also a Facebook Group called Martha’s Vineyard Vacation Rentals and others that you can join to see available properties around the island.

Lock in Your Travel Logistics

If you’re flying into the island or taking the ferry from Woods Hole, make those bookings early too. And if you’re planning to bring a car, you’ll need a reservation with the Steamship Authority well in advance — those car spots go quickly. However, you can also try standby. We’ve had luck getting a spot on the ferry at the last moment.

TIP: Go immediately inside the ferry terminal when a ferry leaves to check on availability.

Get Your Festival Pass Ahead of Time

MVAAFF offers a variety of pass options. If you’re serious about catching several screenings, panels, and special events, get your pass early. Many of the top-tier passes — especially those that include receptions or premieres — sell out quickly.

Dress for Vineyard Casual

This is Martha’s Vineyard in August — the vibe is polished but relaxed. Think sundresses, linen shirts, comfortable sandals or sneakers. It’s smart to bring a light jacket or sweater, too. Evenings by the water can get surprisingly cool.

Pace Yourself — But Don’t Miss the Big Moments

The week is packed. Between back-to-back screenings, Q&A sessions, Color of Conversation panels, beach meetups, and evening mixers, there’s a lot to take in. Build downtime into your schedule. Grab coffee at Mocha Mott’s. Walk the Inkwell. And rest when you need it — you won’t want to miss the conversations that happen off-stage, too.

Attend the Color of Conversation Series

These aren’t your standard post-film panels. Color of Conversation events bring together creators, scholars, and community leaders for meaningful conversations about race, culture, media, and justice. Bring your full self. These are the talks that stay with you long after the festival ends.

Network Naturally

This is one of the most welcoming festival communities you’ll encounter. Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, student, or industry insider, there’s space for you here. Say hello to someone at a screening. Join a pop-up gathering. Share a seat at a community brunch. Relationships formed at MVAAFF often turn into creative collaborations or lifelong friendships.

Build in Time to Explore the Island

Martha’s Vineyard is part of the experience. Take an early morning walk on Inkwell Beach. Visit the African American Heritage Trail. Shop Black-owned boutiques like C’est La Vie and Cousen Rose Gallery. Head to Menemsha for a sunset picnic. There’s history and beauty everywhere you look.

Support Local Black-Owned Businesses

MVAAFF is surrounded by a thriving ecosystem of Black entrepreneurs, artists, chefs, and shopkeepers. Make it a point to dine, shop, and explore with intention. Every dollar spent here helps sustain a culturally rich island legacy.

Come Open, Curious, and Proud

Above all, bring your full self. Whether you’re there to showcase your work, celebrate others, or simply take in the atmosphere, this is a space where Black stories are centered, honored, and loved. And there’s nothing quite like being in a room — or on a beach — full of people who just get it.

We’ll be there so make sure you stop us to say hello!

The Gazebo i in Oak Bluff. Photo by Toya Fitzpatrick

Quick Tips for First-Time MVAAFF Attendees

Here’s your cheat sheet — 10 quick tips to help you navigate MVAAFF with ease and style:

1. Book your lodging early — Months in advance, especially if you want to stay near Oak Bluffs.

2. Reserve ferry tickets and flights ASAP — Car ferry spots are limited and in high demand.

3. Buy your festival pass ahead of time — Many tiers sell out well before August.

4. Dress Vineyard casual — Chic but comfortable. Bring a light sweater for cooler nights.

5. Don’t try to do everything — Schedule downtime between events to rest and explore.

6. Attend Color of Conversation panels — Some of the most powerful discussions happen off-screen.

7. Network organically — Be open to conversations, even in line or over coffee.

8. Make time for the island — Visit heritage sites, art galleries, beaches, and local eateries.

9. Support Black-owned businesses — From boutiques to bookstores to restaurants, the options are rich and meaningful.

10. Be present — Come open-hearted and ready to celebrate the full spectrum of Black storytelling.

CLICK to find discounted accommodations on Martha’s Vineyard.