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Award winners on stage at UrbanFest 360°

Orlando, Florida · International Film Festival

The power of storytelling

UrbanFest 360° is a 501(c)(3) festival where film, music, fashion and culture collide. Two editions in, our stage is set for 2027 and we want your story on it.

Participate in 2027 →
4.9/ 5
★★★★★

from 25 filmmaker reviews on FilmFreeway

    A message from the founder

    If basketball could bring people together around the world, why couldn't film, fashion, food, music and storytelling do the same?

    Timothy Starks, founder of UrbanFest 360°
    Timothy Starks
    Founder & Executive Director

    The inspiration came from an unexpected place: the Harlem Globetrotters. While the world saw a basketball team, our founder, a SAG-AFTRA actor with more than 30 years in theater, film, television and commercial entertainment, saw cultural ambassadors.

    Urban has never meant one demographic. It stands for cities, communities and the places where culture is created, shared and celebrated. 360° means looking at culture from every angle and making room for every voice.

    UrbanFest 360° is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, built on connection and built for the next generation of storytellers.

    Our Vision

    To become a leading cultural festival that redefines how independent stories are experienced, celebrating creativity in all its forms and building lasting community through art, culture and shared humanity.

    Our Mission

    To amplify diverse and underrepresented voices through an inclusive platform where film, fashion, music, performance and dialogue intersect, using storytelling to inspire connection, cultural pride and positive social impact.

    Three editions, one story

    Choose your year

    A winner celebrates on the UrbanFest 360° stage

    UrbanFest 360° · 2027 · Orlando

    Participate
    in 2027

    Your film on our screens. Your name called on our stage. Submissions for the third edition are made through FilmFreeway: films, screenplays and music.

    Submit on FilmFreeway → Ask a question

    Dates, categories and deadlines for 2027 are published on our FilmFreeway page.

    01

    Film

    Features, documentaries, shorts, student and foreign films, animation and experimental work.

    02

    Screenwriting

    Scripts with bold voices and fresh perspectives, read by our curators and industry partners.

    03

    Music

    Original songs and music-driven storytelling, with a live stage at Music 360°.

    What selected filmmakers get

    More than a screening

    • Screen in a TV studioThree theaters running at once at the Afro TV studio complex on International Drive.
    • An awards night that's a real showLive performances, montages and trophies on a broadcast stage.
    • Red carpet & pressPhotographers, media interviews and a step-and-repeat for every guest.
    • Panels & networkingTalent agents, casting directors, SAG-AFTRA and working filmmakers, in the room with you.
    • A festival hotel rateOur official hotel partner sits within walking distance of the venue.
    “This festival is one that you should ALWAYS submit to because they choose fantastic projects to showcase.”
    Jennifer Marie · Kool-Aid Stand, Best Student Film 2025

    Look back at previous editions

    The UrbanFest experience

    A 360° cultural experience, on screen and beyond.

    01

    Films

    Curated screenings of independent features, documentaries, shorts and experimental works exploring culture, identity, social impact and global perspectives.

    02

    Awards

    A curated awards program honoring excellence in storytelling, performance and creativity, celebrating standout films, filmmakers and cultural contributors.

    03

    Red Carpet

    Signature moments where filmmakers, performers and special guests connect with media, photographers and audiences.

    04

    Community & Networking

    Intentional spaces for connection, collaboration and discovery. Filmmakers tell us they leave with friendships and new jobs.

    05

    Panels & Conversations

    Thought-provoking panels and Q&As with filmmakers, artists, industry professionals and cultural leaders.

    06

    Music & Performers

    Live music, DJ sets, spoken word, dance and showcases that bridge cinema with live art.

    Celebrity endorsements & special support

    Celebrated voices. Shared belief.

    Artists, filmmakers and cultural leaders who believe in the power of storytelling to inspire change and bring communities together.

    Meet the UrbanFest 360° team

    Passionate creators behind the festival.

    Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando

    Official hotel sponsor · third year running

    Stay steps from the screen.

    Holiday Inn Express is the Official Hotel Sponsor of UrbanFest 360° Orlando, with an exclusive discounted rate for the UrbanFest family, within walking distance of the venue. Rooms are limited.

    7276 International Drive, Orlando, Florida

    Reserve now