The Opening Night Gala of PAFF is a grand affair, hosting up to 1000 guests. The evening begins with a glamorous red-carpet experience, followed by an exclusive screening of a highly anticipated film. The event is adorned with a luxurious gifting lounge and culminates with panel discussions featuring A-list cast and crew. The night concludes with an exclusive VIP after-party. This event is not only a celebration of cinematic achievements but also an essential networking opportunity for celebrities, industry professionals, and media representatives.

The Centerpiece, Spotlight, and Closing screenings are cornerstone events at PAFF, drawing film enthusiasts, industry leaders, political figures, and celebrities from various fields including sports, arts, music, and entertainment. Each screening provides a unique opportunity to view groundbreaking films, engage in insightful panel discussions with filmmakers and stars, and participate in the vibrant festivities of the festival. These screenings serve as perfect occasions for media, press, and PR engagements, offering unmatched exposure and networking opportunities in a star-studded environment. Each event is designed to highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of Pan-African cinema, making them must-attend events for anyone involved in or passionate about the film industry.

The PAFF ArtFEST is a vibrant celebration of artistic expression, showcasing over 100 talented artists from around the globe. The festival features a diverse range of mediums including oil, watercolor, glass, ceramics, metal, and more, all influenced by African aesthetics and its diaspora. Beyond fine arts, the ArtFEST offers unique crafts, designer fashions, jewelry, home decor, and fashion accessories. With something to cater to every taste and budget, the ArtFEST attracts over 100,000 visitors annually, making it a cornerstone of cultural exchange and artistic showcase.

The Filmmaker's Party is the ultimate networking event where like-minded filmmakers, distributors, financiers, brands and talent can connect, share ideas, and unwind. It’s an evening filled with music, dancing, and lively conversations, allowing participants to engage with new projects and collaborate in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

PAFF’s Senior Connection caters to the vibrant community of active seniors aged 62 and over by offering free weekday afternoon film screenings. This program provides seniors with a social venue to connect with peers and access valuable information about services and programs that enhance their golden years.

The PAFF Institute acts as a dynamic platform for industry leaders, cultural icons, and thought leaders to share their insights. Through panel discussions and talks, the Institute aims to educate and inspire thousands of attendees, offering them opportunities for personal and professional growth. This is an ideal space for brands to educate the audience about their integration within the film and TV industry.

For over two decades, PAFF has been inviting thousands of students from local schools to participate in film screenings that are both educational and creative. This initiative exposes students to issues such as teen pregnancy, AIDS prevention, and cultural respect, fostering a new generation of conscious viewers and creators.

The Saturday Children’s Festival offers a day filled with child-friendly activities including age appropriate film screenings, storytelling, and arts and crafts. It’s a family-centric event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Africa and its diaspora, supported by past sponsors like the Lakers Youth Foundation, SONY, and Disney.

The SpokenWord Fest is a special event dedicated to celebrating the art of spoken word. It features performances by some of the most talented and innovative spoken word artists, offering brands a unique opportunity to integrate organically into the fabric of this vibrant cultural expression.

The LOL Comedy night is a highlight of the festival, featuring hilarious performances from emerging talents and established comedians alike. It’s a night guaranteed to have the audience laughing out loud, making it a favorite for attendees and a great opportunity for brand visibility.

During the ArtFEST, the PAFF Fashion Show showcases the latest in African-inspired fashion, presented by a curated team of Pan African designers. This event is not just a fashion show but a celebration of wearable art, providing a platform for designers to reach an audience passionate about fashion, health, and beauty.

The Filmmaker Awards Brunch is the grand finale of the 12-day festival, celebrating the achievements of filmmakers with a catered brunch and the presentation of unique, handcrafted awards. It’s a pivotal event for discovering new talent in the film industry, both domestically and internationally.